Blueberry Quinoa Salad
Blueberry Quinoa Salad
- 1/2 cup dry quinoa (red or white)
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- 5 ounces mixed salad greens
- 1/2 cup roasted unsalted hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1 Tbsp. grape seed oil
- 2 shallots, minced (or sub 1/2 cup sweet yellow onion)
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 Tbsp. maple syrup (or honey)
- 1-2 Tbsp. olive oil
- Pinch each salt and pepper
- 1/3 cup blueberries
Prepare quinoa by rinsing thoroughly with cool water in a fine mesh strainer. Then add to a small saucepan with vegetable stock and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy like rice. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
In the meantime, prepare dressing by heating a small skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 Tbsp. grape seed oil, shallot, and sauté until tender and slightly caramelized – about 5 minutes – stirring often. Remove from heat to cool. Add shallot to a food processor or blender with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, blueberries, maple syrup, and a pinch each salt and pepper. Blend until pureed, scraping down sides as needed. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. To plate, top the mixed greens with slightly cooled quinoa (you may not use it all), blueberries and hazelnuts. Serve with dressing. Best when fresh. Serves 2 as an entrée, 4 as a side dish.
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