Looking for a fresh, vibrant, and healthy salad that’s both delicious and satisfying? Look no further than this Almonds, Passion Fruit, and Quinoa Salad. Packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and a burst of tropical sweetness, this salad is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even as a nutritious snack. The combination of quinoa, crunchy almonds, and the tangy-sweet taste of passion fruit creates a salad that’s both unique and refreshing.
This recipe is not only rich in essential nutrients, but it’s also simple to prepare and customizable. Whether you’re looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet or just want something different, this salad will become a new favorite. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
2 cups water (for cooking quinoa)
1/4 cup sliced almonds (lightly toasted for extra crunch)
2 ripe passion fruits (cut in half and scooped out)
1 small cucumber (diced)
1/2 red onion (finely chopped)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Quinoa:
Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
Once cooked, remove from heat and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Set aside to cool for a few minutes.
Toast the Almonds:
While the quinoa is cooking, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Dice the cucumber, chop the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the cilantro. Scoop out the pulp of the passion fruit and discard any seeds.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Gently fold in the passion fruit pulp, letting its juice mix with the other ingredients.
Drizzle the olive oil and lime juice over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well mixed.
Finish with Almonds:
Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top of the salad for added crunch and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 270
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 40mg
“Good food is all the sweeter when shared with good friends.”
Why You’ll Love This Salad:
This Almonds, Passion Fruit, and Quinoa Salad is a burst of flavor in every bite. The nutty quinoa serves as the perfect base, while the passion fruit adds a tropical sweetness that balances the other fresh vegetables. The almonds bring a satisfying crunch, and the fresh lime juice and cilantro provide a zesty finish.
This salad is not only a feast for your taste buds, but it’s also incredibly nutritious. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent plant-based protein source. Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while passion fruit is packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
This salad is also versatile—you can add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein or toss in some feta cheese for added richness. It’s a great way to pack in a variety of nutrients without compromising on flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing a healthy lunch, a light dinner, or a side dish for a gathering, this salad is sure to impress. It’s quick to prepare, refreshing, and full of vibrant flavors, making it perfect for warm days or whenever you’re craving a nutritious meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
This Almonds, Passion Fruit, and Quinoa Salad is a bright and healthy dish that’s sure to become a staple in your meal planning. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and loaded with nutrients. Enjoy it as is, or add your favorite proteins for a more substantial meal. Happy eating!
Let me know if you’d like any further modifications or have questions!