Mango Quinoa Salad

A mango quinoa salad is a refreshing, nutritious, and delicious dish that combines the flavors and textures of mango, quinoa, and various vegetables and greens. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, and it is often enjoyed during warm weather due to its tropical taste and vibrant colors!

What is a quinoa salad made of?

Here’s a basic description of a mango quinoa salad:

1. Quinoa: A gluten-free, protein-rich seed that serves as the base for the salad.
2. Mango: The star ingredient of the salad, mango adds a sweet and tangy flavor, along with a soft and juicy texture. Mango is a source of a variety of reducing sugars, amino acids, aromatic compounds, and functional compounds, such as pectin, vitamins, anthocyanins, and polyphenols.
3. Vegetables: A variety of fresh vegetables, such as red onion and cherry tomatoes, can be added to the salad for color, texture, and nutrients.
4. Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint are used to enhance the flavors and add brightness to the salad.
5. Coconut Lime Dressing: A light and tangy dressing made with ingredients such as lime juice, olive oil, honey, and spices like chili flakes is used to tie all the flavors together.

How healthy is quinoa salad?

Mango quinoa salad can be a healthy and nutritious meal or side dish, depending on the ingredients used and the portion size consumed. Quinoa itself is a gluten-free seed that is rich in nutrients and has health-promoting properties such as being antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antiobesity, and cardio-beneficial.

A quinoa salad made with wholesome ingredients can offer several health benefits:

1. High in protein: Quinoa is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it a great option for vegetarians, vegans, or those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
2. Rich in fiber: Quinoa and the vegetables typically included in a quinoa salad provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and supports a feeling of fullness.
3. Healthy fats: If the salad includes nuts, seeds, or avocados, it will contain healthy fats that support heart health and brain function.

In summary, quinoa salad can be a healthy meal option when prepared with wholesome ingredients and consumed in moderation.

How to make this salad?

Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed the water and is tender. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and allow it to cool to room temperature.
Prepare the vegetables, mango and herbs: While the quinoa is cooling, dice the mango, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely dice the red onion, and chop the cilantro. I like to keep mint leaves as they are without cutting.

Make the Coconut lime dressing. If you don’t have coconut oil, it’s ok to replace it with olive oil for this mango quinoa salad recipe.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced mango, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and mint leaves.

Mix gently to combine. Pour the lime dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat evenly. Adjust salt and pepper as needed and serve.

This refreshing mango quinoa salad with lime dressing makes a perfect side dish or a light, healthy meal. Enjoy!

What tastes good with quinoa salad?

Mango quinoa salad has a refreshing and tropical taste that pairs well with various dishes, particularly those with complementary flavors and textures. Here are some suggestions for dishes that taste good with mango quinoa salad:

1. Tacos or wraps: Use the mango quinoa salad as a filling for tacos or wraps, along with your choice of protein, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. For example:
   • Healthy Shrimp Burrito
2. Spicy dishes: The sweetness and freshness of the mango quinoa salad can help balance spicy dishes, such as grilled fish with a spicy rub, or a Thai curry.
3. Summer rolls: Incorporate mango quinoa salad into summer rolls along with shrimp or tofu, fresh herbs, and rice paper wrappers. Serve with a dipping sauce like peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce. For example:
   • Crispy Rice Paper Sushi Rolls with Salmon
4. Black bean dishes: The sweetness of the mango quinoa salad can balance the earthiness of black bean dishes, such as black bean burgers, black bean enchiladas, or a simple black bean salad.
5. Grilled or baked proteins: Fish (such as salmon or bass), shrimp, or tofu can be grilled or baked with a simple seasoning or marinade and served alongside the mango quinoa salad. For example:
   • Baked Coconut Crusted Salmon
   • Salmon with Strawberry Salsa
   • Pistachio Salmon Bites