Name: Mary Berry Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups water; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Quinoa salad is a nutritious and versatile dish, and Mary Berry’s version brings a delightful twist with its combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create this flavorful and healthy salad.

What is Mary Berry Quinoa Salad?

Mary Berry Quinoa Salad is a vibrant mix of quinoa, fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to any meal or a standalone dish.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Nutrient-Dense: Quinoa is a superfood rich in protein, fiber, and essential amino acids.

Flavorful: The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs adds a burst of flavor.
Versatile: Can be served as a main dish or a side dish.
Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make it an easy recipe to follow.

Healthy: Low in calories and high in nutrients, it’s a great choice for a healthy diet.

Ingredients Needed for Mary Berry Quinoa Salad

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water

1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 cucumber, diced

1 red onion, finely chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Instruction to Make Mary Berry Quinoa Salad

Cook the quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water, then cook in a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Prepare vegetables: While quinoa cooks, dice bell peppers, cucumber, and chop red onion.

Mix dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Combine ingredients: Once quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, vegetables, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and mint.
Add dressing: Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.

Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Quinoa Salad

Grilled Chicken: Adds protein and complements the salad’s fresh flavors.
Fish: A light, flaky fish like salmon or tilapia pairs perfectly.

Pita Bread: Ideal for scooping up the salad.
Hummus: A creamy side that adds texture and flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Enhances the salad’s veggie-packed goodness.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Mary Berry Quinoa Salad

Rinse quinoa thoroughly: Removes bitterness from the natural coating.
Cool quinoa before mixing: Prevents wilting of fresh vegetables.
Dice vegetables uniformly: Ensures even distribution of flavors.

Use fresh herbs: Enhances the salad’s aromatic quality.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Chill the salad: Allows flavors to meld and enhance.

Toss before serving: Ensures dressing is well distributed.

Storing Mary Berry Quinoa Salad: Best Practices

Use airtight containers: Keeps the salad fresh and prevents odors.
Refrigerate promptly: Store in the fridge immediately after preparation.

Consume within 3 days: Best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor.
Avoid freezing: Quinoa salad doesn’t freeze well due to the fresh vegetables.

Reheating Mary Berry Quinoa Salad: Best Practices

Serve cold: This salad is best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it warm:

Use a microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
Stovetop option: Warm gently in a non-stick pan over low heat.
Avoid overcooking: Heating too much can make vegetables soggy.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 12 g

Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 4 g

Sodium: 200 mg

FAQs

How do I make Mary Berry Quinoa Salad?

To make Mary Berry Quinoa Salad, start by cooking quinoa according to the package instructions. While it cools, chop fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cucumber, and red onion. Mix together a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Combine the cooled quinoa with the chopped vegetables, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and mint. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Can I prepare Mary Berry Quinoa Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Mary Berry Quinoa Salad ahead of time. It’s actually recommended to make it a few hours in advance to let the flavors develop. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before serving, give it a quick toss to redistribute the dressing.

What can I serve with Mary Berry Quinoa Salad?

Mary Berry Quinoa Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish like salmon or tilapia, or pita bread for a complete meal. It also complements hummus and roasted vegetables, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Is Mary Berry Quinoa Salad healthy?

Yes, Mary Berry Quinoa Salad is a healthy option. Quinoa is a superfood packed with protein, fiber, and essential amino acids. The fresh vegetables and herbs add vitamins and minerals, while the olive oil dressing provides healthy fats. This salad is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great choice for a balanced diet.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Quinoa Salad is a delightful, healthy dish that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy this nutritious salad as a main dish or a side, and savor the fresh, vibrant flavors it brings to your table.

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