Zesty Lemon Blueberry Basil Quinoa Salad: A Summer Picnic Favorite

Today’s Unique Recipe: Lemon Blueberry Basil Quinoa Salad

Hey there, foodies! Today, I’m excited to share a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s perfect for a summer picnic or a light lunch option. This Lemon Blueberry Basil Quinoa Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will surely impress your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• quinoa (200g)
• blueberries (100g)
• fresh basil leaves (15g)
• juice and zest of 1 lemon
• slivered almonds (50g)
• olive oil (30ml)
• honey (15ml)
• salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Tools:

• saucepan
• knife
• cutting board
• mixing bowl
• citrus juicer

To start, rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitter coating. Cook the quinoa in a saucepan according to package instructions until fluffy. Let it cool to room temperature. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, blueberries, chopped fresh basil leaves, slivered almonds, lemon zest, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Mix gently to combine.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to make a simple dressing. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat evenly.

For a unique twist, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The lemon will infuse the salad with a refreshing citrus aroma, while the blueberries add a burst of sweetness in every bite.

Serving:

This Lemon Blueberry Basil Quinoa Salad weighs approximately 500g after it’s all mixed together. It makes 4 servings, with each serving weighing around 125g. A serving of this salad is packed with vibrant colors and flavors and is estimated to be around 200 calories.

One clever tip for this recipe is to toast the slivered almonds before adding them to the salad. This will enhance their nutty flavor and add a crunchy texture to the dish.

I hope you give this Lemon Blueberry Basil Quinoa Salad a try and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite. Feel free to customize it by adding other fruits or nuts to make it your own. Happy cooking!