Caprese Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:

1. 1 cup quinoa
2. 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3. 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
4. 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
5. 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
6. 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
7. Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions:

• Quinoa: You can substitute quinoa with couscous or bulgur for a different texture.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes can be used as alternatives.
• Fresh Mozzarella: If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, try using feta or goat cheese for a different flavor.
• Basil: Substitute basil with fresh spinach or arugula for a variation.

How to Cook Quinoa Perfectly:

1. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water.
2. In a saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
5. Fluff quinoa with a fork, and it’s ready to use.

How to Make Caprese Quinoa Salad:

1. Cook quinoa according to the instructions above and let it cool to room temperature.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and chopped basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Recipe FAQs:

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. It actually tastes better when the flavors have had time to meld. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

2. How long does it last in the refrigerator?
The Caprese Quinoa Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onions for additional crunch and flavor.

4. Is there a vegan version of this salad?
To make it vegan, substitute the fresh mozzarella with diced avocado or a plant-based cheese alternative.

Enjoy your delicious Caprese Quinoa Salad!