Strawberry Quinoa Summer Salad

The warmer the weather gets this time of year, the more I find myself craving all of the light, refreshing salads. I can can tell you that my Strawberry Quinoa Salad will be your new go-to all summer long.

I think I speak for us all when I say that I love a recipe that requires minimal cooking, and this salad checks that box. The only real component you’ll have to cook is the quinoa, which truly takes no time at all. My hack whenever I make anything like this – quinoa, rice, farro, etc. – is to cook it in bone broth or veggie broth instead of water to make it extra flavorful.

Quinoa is one of my personal favorite staples to have on hand and throw in grain bowls, salads and more throughout the week. It’s not only super versatile but also incredibly nutritious.

Quinoa is one of the few plant-based sources of “complete protein” meaning it has all of the 9 essential amino acids. Plus, it provides a wide variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and well as fiber.

There’s a reason I use it so often in recipes! Check out all of these other quinoa-packed meals on the blog:

• Quinoa Bowl with Almond Pesto
• Veggie Quinoa Stir Fry
• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
• Seasonal Veggie & Quinoa Bowl with Herbed Tahini
• Sticky Orange Tofu
• Harvest Buddha Bowl with Lemon Herb Tahini
• Homemade Flower Child Mother Earth Bowl

What really makes this salad a summer staple, though, is the combination of strawberries, mint, cucumber and feta – a classic for a reason! You get a little bit of that sweet and savory goodness in every bite, and it’s just so dang delicious.

You’re more than welcome to use the feta of your choice, but for those with a dairy allergy or simply looking to limit dairy, you can also use a vegan version. I recommend the VioLife Just Like Feta and think it’s super tasty. You can likely find it at your local Whole Foods!

Finish this off with my simple Lemon Vinaigrette, and I encourage you to allow the salad to sit for a bit before serving to let all of the flavors come together. I even thought it was better the next day!

Plus, if you want to make this a more filling meal in itself, you can always add a protein such as chicken, salmon, tofu, etc.

I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try for all of your summer get-togethers – picnics, BBQs or pool days. Happy summer, and I hope you enjoy!