Pomegranate Quinoa Salad is loaded with fresh and fruity flavors. This Mediterranean-inspired salad features mint, parsley, and a tangy pomegranate dressing. Makes 4 meal-sized salads or 8 side salads.
Prep Time20 minutesmins
Cook Time20 minutesmins
Total Time40 minutesmins
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Fusion, Mediterranean
Special diet: gluten-free, nut-free, soy-free, vegan
Cook the quinoa: To prepare on the stove, add 2 cups water to the rinsed grains in a medium pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and cover. Simmer until the water is absorbed, 15 to 20 minutes. To prepare using an Instant Pot electric pressure cooker, add 1¼ cups water to the rinsed grains and stir to combine. Close and lock the lid. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally.Allow the quinoa to cool to room temperature. To cool more quickly, spread out the cooked grains in a thin layer on a large baking sheet.
1 cup quinoa
While the quinoa cooks, prepare the dressing: Place the pomegranate arils, olive oil, red wine vinegar, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper in the container of a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth. Taste and adjust the seasonings, as desired. Set aside.
⅓ cup pomegranate arils, ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, ¼ cup red wine vinegar, 2 Tablespoons pure maple syrup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt and pepper
To make the salad, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa, pomegranate arils, green onions, parsley, and mint in a large bowl.
1 cup pomegranate arils, ½ cup green onions, ½ cup fresh parsley, ½ cup fresh mint
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Notes
Leftover salad can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.