Quinoa Spinach Salad with Pesto

Quinoa Spinach Salad with Pesto

4 servings
This light, flavorful quinoa spinach salad with pesto and nuts makes an easy weeknight side dish or lovely vegetarian lunch!

Ingredients

  • dry quinoa
    ¾ c
  • salt
    ¼ tsp
  • black pepper
    ¼ tsp
  • basil pesto
    3 tbsp
  • white wine vinegar
    2 tbsp
  • finely chopped fresh spinach leaves
    1 c
  • parmesan cheese

    fresh grated, preferably

    3 tbsp
  • chopped walnuts

    see notes

    3 tbsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook the quinoa according to the package directions. Transfer the cooked quinoa to a medium-sized bowl and season with salt and pepper.

  2. 2

    In the meantime, make your pesto (or open a jar - no judging!) and prep the remaining ingredients.

  3. 3

    Add everything to the bowl and mix well with the quinoa. Taste and adjust seasonings.

  4. 4

    Serve warm and enjoy!

Quinoa Spinach Salad with Pesto

Quinoa Spinach Salad with Pesto

20 min4 servings245 cal

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About this Recipe

Looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes? This Quinoa Spinach Salad with Pesto is your answer, perfect for a busy weeknight side or a satisfying vegetarian lunch. It’s an effortlessly elegant dish that feels gourmet but comes together with ease.

What makes this salad a standout is the harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Fluffy quinoa provides a satisfying base, while vibrant fresh spinach adds a subtle earthiness. The star is a bright, herbaceous basil pesto, its rich flavor beautifully complemented by a tangy white wine vinegar dressing and the satisfying crunch of chopped walnuts.

When you dive into this salad, expect a delightful explosion of fresh, savory, and nutty notes. The tender quinoa absorbs the fragrant pesto dressing, creating a juicy foundation for the crisp fresh spinach. Each bite is punctuated by the earthy, textural contrast of walnuts and a savory hint from the Parmesan cheese. It’s a light yet remarkably satisfying dish that feels wholesome and vibrant, offering a welcome reprieve from heavier meals.

Feel free to customize this versatile dish to your liking. If walnuts aren't on hand, pecans or almonds would also provide a great crunch. For a dairy-free option, simply omit the Parmesan cheese. You can also boost the protein by adding cooked chickpeas or white beans, or introduce more vegetables like chopped cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness and color.

This Quinoa Spinach Salad with Pesto is an ideal candidate for a light main course during lunch or a fresh, vibrant side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or any of your favorite plant-based proteins, making it a flexible addition to almost any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions