Ingredients
Grains
- 1 cup rinsed quinoa
- 2 cups water or 1 cup water and 1 cup vegetable broth
Salad Mix
- 15 oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed (1.5 cups, 255 g)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (35 g)
- 1 green bell pepper, seeds removed and diced
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely grated
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onion (40 g)
Dressing
- 1/4 cup tahini (60 g)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (30 mL)
- 2 tsp madras curry powder
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (30 mL)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: Bring the water (and vegetable broth, if using) to a boil in a medium saucepan. While waiting, rinse the quinoa well under cold water to remove any bitterness. Add the rinsed quinoa to the boiling liquid. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer lightly for 15 minutes.
- Let Quinoa Rest: Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, allowing the quinoa to steam and become fluffy. Remove the lid and fluff the quinoa gently with a fork.
- Prepare Salad Mix: While the quinoa cooks, combine the chickpeas, dried cranberries, diced green bell pepper, grated carrot, and thinly sliced green onions in a large mixing or serving bowl. Mix these ingredients thoroughly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, madras curry powder, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl, then add the fluffed quinoa. Mix everything well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Season and Serve: Taste the salad and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately or chill briefly for a refreshing cold salad.
Notes
- Rinsing quinoa before cooking helps remove its natural bitterness.
- You can substitute the madras curry powder with another mild curry powder if preferred.
- For added crunch, consider topping the salad with toasted nuts or seeds.
- This salad can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for meals year-round.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian