Island Quinoa Salad

Are you looking for a refreshing, healthy, and delicious salad that bursts with vibrant flavors and colors? Look no further! Our Quinoa Salad with Red and Yellow Tomatoes, Cucumbers, and Da Kine Hawaiian Island Dressing is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you're preparing a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or something to bring to a potluck, this salad is sure to impress.

INGREDIENTS

For the Salad:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup red cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup yellow cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup Da Kine Hawaiian Island Dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste

METHOD

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil.
3. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, and cover.
4. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
6. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. While the quinoa is cooling, wash and prepare the vegetables.
2. Halve the red and yellow cherry tomatoes.
3. Dice the cucumber.
4. Finely chop the red onion, parsley, and basil.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa, red and yellow tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and basil.
2. Pour the Da Kine Hawaiian Island Dressing over the salad.
3. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl.
2. Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of freshness.
3. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld together.

Tips & Variations

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, avocado, or spinach.
• Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle some toasted Island Harvest Macadamia Nuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
• Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a creamy texture and extra flavor.

Why Da Kine Hawaiian Island Dressing?

Da Kine Hawaiian Island Dressing brings a unique blend of tropical flavors that perfectly complements the fresh ingredients in this salad. This "Catalina Style Island Dressing"  adds a delightful twist, making this quinoa salad stand out from the rest.


This Quinoa Salad with Red and Yellow Tomatoes, Cucumbers, and Da Kine Island Dressing is a colorful and nutritious dish that's easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. It's perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a quick and healthy meal at home. Give it a try and let the tropical flavors transport you to an island paradise with every bite!


Feel free to share your experiences and variations of this recipe in the comments below. Happy cooking!

Mahalo!