Description
A refreshing and vibrant Strawberry Burrata Quinoa Salad combining the nuttiness of quinoa, the sweetness of fresh strawberries, creamy burrata cheese, and a bright honey lemon vinaigrette. This salad is perfect as a light lunch or elegant side, featuring fresh herbs and a delightful crunch from chopped pistachios.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 1/2 cups cooked quinoa
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
- 1 ball burrata cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
- 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh herbs (like parsley, chives, etc.)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (preferably roasted and salted)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Honey Lemon Vinaigrette
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 pinch salt and pepper
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water, then combine with 2 cups of liquid (water or broth) in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until quinoa is tender and liquid absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in extra virgin olive oil until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.
- Toss Quinoa with Dressing: Once the quinoa is cooled, toss it with 2 to 3 tablespoons of the honey lemon vinaigrette, adjusting the amount based on your preference for flavor.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the sliced strawberries, lemon zest, chopped fresh basil, mint, and other fresh herbs to the quinoa. Gently crumble or tear the burrata cheese into chunks and stir it into the salad along with freshly cracked black pepper.
- Add Nuts and Adjust Seasoning: Toss in the chopped pistachios for added crunch. Taste the salad and season with additional salt, pepper, or more vinaigrette as desired.
- Serve or Store: The salad can be served immediately for freshest berries and texture, or stored in the refrigerator for up to one day. For best results at parties, assemble right before serving to keep the berries fresh and vibrant.
Notes
- Cook quinoa in advance and chill to save time during assembly.
- Adjust the amount of fresh herbs according to your preference.
- Use roasted salted pistachios for an enhanced flavor, or raw for a milder taste.
- Serve the vinaigrette on the side if guests prefer to add dressing according to taste.
- This salad is best enjoyed within a day to maintain freshness of berries and burrata.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
