Spiced Peach And Cilantro Quinoa Salad
Spiced Peach And Cilantro Quinoa Salad is a Mediterranean recipe categorized as salad, side dish, with 25 min of prep, 20 min of cooking, and 45 min total. It yields 4 servings.
Cooked quinoa is tossed with ripe peaches, cilantro, red onion, jalapeño, lime, cumin, and optional feta. The salad combines juicy fruit, fresh herbs, gentle heat, and a light grain base that can be served warm or chilled.
Mealtime: Salad, Side Dish
Type: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free
Cooking Time: Under 15 Minutes
Difficulty Level: Beginner
Seasonal Preference:
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 250mg
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 2 ripe peaches diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/2 jalapeño minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled (optional)
Step by Step Instructions
- Start by rinsing the quinoa in cold water to remove any bitterness.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water, then bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the quinoa sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer it to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.
- While the quinoa cools, prepare the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Once the quinoa is at room temperature, add the diced peaches, chopped cilantro, finely chopped red onion, and minced jalapeño to the mixing bowl.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the quinoa salad ingredients and toss gently to combine everything evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad and give it another light toss.
- Serve the spiced peach and cilantro quinoa salad chilled or at room temperature, enjoying the fresh flavors.
Nutritional Information
Each vibrant serving of Spiced Peach and Cilantro Quinoa Salad delivers a satisfying balance of macronutrients, pairing heart-healthy fats and protein with fiber-rich grains and produce for a refreshing yet nourishing bite.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Utensils
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Salad serving bowl
Storage & Reheating
Storage
Within two hours of preparation or serving, divide leftover Spiced Peach And Cilantro Quinoa Salad into shallow portions and refrigerate them in an airtight container at 40°F (4°C) or below. For the best fresh texture, use within 2 days; do not keep refrigerated leftovers longer than 3 to 4 days.
Reheating
Do not reheat Spiced Peach And Cilantro Quinoa Salad; serve it cold or let it stand briefly to take off the refrigerator chill. Return unused portions to the refrigerator promptly so the fresh texture and flavor are not compromised.
Practical Cooking Notes
chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring tools, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven.
Use the recipe’s texture and color cues, then check the thickest or densest piece before removing the dish from heat.
Prep time: 25 minutes. Cook time: 20 minutes. Total time: 45 minutes. Unverified legacy timing has been estimated from the listed method; begin checking at the recipe’s objective doneness cue.
Recipe FAQs & Expert Tips
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the quinoa, chop the fruit and herbs, and mix the dressing a few hours ahead. Store the components separately in airtight containers, then toss everything together right before serving to preserve the texture of the peaches and cilantro.
What can I use instead of cilantro if I’m not a fan?
Swap cilantro for fresh parsley or mint for a different but equally bright flavor profile. Parsley keeps a Mediterranean balance, while mint adds a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with the peaches.
Is there a substitute for feta if I need a dairy-free option?
Use crumbled toasted pine nuts, pepitas, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a savory, satisfying bite without dairy. These options add texture and umami without overpowering the delicate sweetness of the peaches.
How can I adjust the heat level?
Reduce or omit the jalapeño for a milder salad, or keep the seeds if you want a little more spice. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the dressing for a different layer of warmth without upping the jalapeño.