Vibrant Summer Salad Recipe

Vibrant Summer Salad Recipe

May 9, 2025 Written by Scarlett

Introduction

Hey there, foodies! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that perfectly captures the vibrant flavors of summer and is sure to impress your taste buds. This dish was inspired by a recent trip to a farmer’s market where I discovered an unusual ingredient that sparked my creativity in the kitchen. Get ready for a culinary adventure unlike any other!

Ingredients

  • purple cauliflower (300g)
  • dragonfruit (200g)
  • black quinoa (150g)
  • baby kale (100g)
  • goat cheese (100g)
  • pistachios (50g)
  • orange blossom honey
  • lemon
  • olive oil
  • sea salt

Kitchen Tools

  • chef’s knife
  • cutting board
  • saucepan
  • strainer
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • baking sheet

Preparation

Purple Cauliflower and Dragonfruit Quinoa Salad

I start by rinsing the black quinoa under cold water before cooking it in a saucepan with a pinch of sea salt according to the package instructions. While the quinoa cooks, I chop the purple cauliflower into small florets and cube the dragonfruit. In a mixing bowl, I combine the cooked quinoa, purple cauliflower, and dragonfruit along with a handful of baby kale.

Next, I crumble goat cheese over the salad and sprinkle with chopped pistachios for added crunch. In a separate small bowl, I whisk together a dressing of olive oil, orange blossom honey, and fresh lemon juice. I drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until well combined.

I spread the salad mixture onto a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400°F for 15 minutes until the cauliflower is tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.

Serving

Once out of the oven, I sprinkle a bit more sea salt on top for a final touch of seasoning. This Purple Cauliflower and Dragonfruit Quinoa Salad is best served warm, allowing all the ingredients to shine through. Enjoy as a light and refreshing meal on its own or as a side dish to complement your favorite protein.

Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of orange zest to the dressing before tossing it with the salad. The citrusy aroma will elevate the dish and make each bite a delightful experience.

Final Details

Total weight: 900g
Number of servings: 4
Average serving weight: 225g
Calories per serving: 280 (approximate)

I hope you give this unique Purple Cauliflower and Dragonfruit Quinoa Salad a try and make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or personal twists. Happy cooking!

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