Strawberry Quinoa Salad Recipe With Feta and Avocado

I’ve got a fresh and tasty recipe for you today that’s perfect for summer: Strawberry Quinoa Salad! It’s light, healthy, and super easy to make. 

Plus, it’s packed with vibrant colors and flavors that’ll brighten up any meal.

If you love easy summer salads you may also like to try my Peach Tomato Feta Salad or my Easy Watermelon Feta Basil Salad.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS STRAWBERRY QUINOA SALAD RECIPE

• Fresh and Light: The strawberries and basil add a fresh, summery flavor that’s light and refreshing.
• Nutritious: Quinoa is packed with protein and fiber, making this salad not just delicious but also healthy.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a main course. Great for picnics, BBQs, or meal prep.

SIMPLE INGREDIENTS YOU NEED FOR THE STRAWBERRY SPINACH SALAD

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make this healthy salad (the exact measurements, nutrient information and full recipe are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post):

• Cooked quinoa
• Fresh strawberries
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Sliced almonds, toasted
• Fresh basil, chopped
• Red onion, finely diced
• Cucumber
• Avocado
• Mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, or your favorite mix)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Balsamic vinegar
• Honey or maple syrup
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional – dijon mustard, fresh mint, other fresh herbs, lemon juice, lemon zest, tangy goat cheese, etc.

HOW TO MAKE THE HEALTHY QUINOA SALAD

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
2. Hull and slice the strawberries.
3. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly.
4. Chop the basil and finely dice the red onion.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, toasted almonds, chopped basil, and diced red onion.
7. Add the mixed greens and toss everything gently to combine.
8. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss again to coat all the ingredients evenly.

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR BEST RESULTS

• Cool Quinoa: Make sure the quinoa is cool before adding it to the salad to prevent wilting the greens.
• Add Protein: For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or chickpeas.
• Customize: Feel free to swap the feta for goat cheese or the almonds for pecans. Make it your own!

STORING LEFTOVER HEARTY QUINOA SALAD

• Separate Components: If possible, store the salad components separately. Keep the mixed greens, quinoa mixture, and dressing in separate containers. This prevents the greens from getting soggy.
• Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to store each component. This helps maintain freshness and prevents any unwanted flavors from mingling.
• Refrigerate: Store the leftovers in the refrigerator. The quinoa mixture and dressing can last up to 3 days, while the greens are best used within 1-2 days.
• Combine Before Serving: When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, combine the quinoa mixture with the greens and add the dressing. Toss gently to mix everything together.
• Freshen Up: If the greens have wilted a bit, you can add a handful of fresh mixed greens or a splash of lemon juice to revive the salad.

FAQS

WHY SHOULD I USE SWEET STRAWBERRIES IN THIS SALAD?

Sweet strawberries add natural sweetness and a burst of fresh flavor, making the salad taste vibrant and delicious.

CAN I SERVE THE QUINOA WARM?

For the best texture and flavor, let the quinoa cool to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients.

IS THIS SALAD GOOD TO MAKE DURING STRAWBERRY SEASON?

Yes, this is the perfect time of year to make this salad when strawberries are at their peak freshness and sweetness.

DO I REALLY HAVE TO RINSE THE QUINOA BEFORE COOKING?

Yes, rinsed quinoa removes any bitterness from the saponin coating.

CAN I USE DIFFERENT VINAIGRETTES LIKE STRAWBERRY VINAIGRETTE OR LEMON VINAIGRETTE?

Yes, both strawberry vinaigrette and lemon vinaigrette would be delicious alternatives to the balsamic dressing.

Other Easy Recipes For Dinner You May Enjoy!

• Keto Chicken Fajita Casserole
• Spicy Salmon Sushi Bowl Recipe
• Quick Low Carb Tortilla Pizza Recipe
• Easy Low Carb Spaghetti Squash With Meat Sauce
• The Best Easy Vegan Pesto With Zucchini Noodles
• Keto Greek Salad Recipe
• Low Carb Big Mac Salad Bowl
• Shrimp Rice Paper Rolls With Easy Peanut Sauce
• Easy Air Fryer Hamburgers (Quick And Juicy)
• Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Chicken Bites

IF YOU TRIED THIS SUMMER QUINOA SALAD RECIPE PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS SALAD AND SALAD DRESSING ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails