A refreshing and flavorful Caprese Quinoa Salad that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The quinoa provides a hearty base, while the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a burst of flavor. The red onion adds a bit of crunch and the lemon-olive oil dressing ties everything together. To make the salad, simply cook the quinoa according to package directions and let it cool slightly. Then, combine the quinoa, tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and red onion in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve immediately or chill for later.
The Caprese Salad is a classic Italian dish that is made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. It is believed to have originated on the island of Capri in the early 1900s. The salad is said to have been created by a local chef who was inspired by the colors of the Italian flag. The red tomatoes represent the blood of the tomatoes, the white mozzarella represents the snow on the Alps, and the green basil represents the grass of the meadows. The Caprese Salad is a simple but delicious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. It is also a great way to use up fresh tomatoes and basil from your garden.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa
1 cup chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped mozzarella
1/2 cup chopped basil
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the quinoa according to package directions.
Combine the quinoa, tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and red onion in a large bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Serve immediately or chill for later.
Why It Works
The quinoa provides a hearty base for the salad.
The tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a burst of flavor.
The red onion adds a bit of crunch.
The lemon-olive oil dressing ties everything together.