| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 138 | 4.5g | 0.5g | 22g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 9g | 3g | 3g | 0.45g |
Health Benefits of Quinoa Salad with Cubeb Pepper Dressing
Why do I love this recipe for Quinoa Salad with Cubeb Pepper dressing? It’s not just because it’s a beautiful amalgamation of flavors and textures, but also because it offers a nutritional punch that leaves you feeling light and refreshed. This dish is a vibrant medley of fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, mango, and pomegranate seeds, all mixed lovingly with quinoa, mint, and a zesty cubeb pepper dressing.
Quinoa is often referred to as a superfood, and for good reason. As a complete protein, it provides all nine essential amino acids, making it an exceptional option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. It’s also high in fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
The Unique Charm of Cubeb Pepper
Cubeb pepper, an ingredient that may not be widespread in many kitchens, brings a distinctive spiciness to the dressing, standing out from the regular black pepper with its slightly citrusy flavor. This spice has roots in Indonesian and Asian cuisine, often used medicinally for its anti-inflammatory properties and its potential benefits for digestive health.
The first time I tasted cubeb pepper, it was like a gateway into a new world of flavors. It immediately reminded me of my travels through Asian markets, filled with the air of endless possibilities. Using it in this quinoa salad dressing gives an exotic twist to an otherwise simple dish.
Reliving Memories Through Food
The fresh fruit components remind me of summers in Seattle where berries are abundant and locally sourced. Combining them with quinoa, an ingredient deeply ingrained in modern Pacific Northwest cuisine, and the exotic flair of cubeb pepper, feels like merging two halves of my culinary identity. The mint leaves give it a refreshing finish, making it a perfect side dish for any grilled fish or teriyaki chicken. It even pairs wonderfully with sushi rolls, perhaps a Tuna or Salmon roll, adding a fruity balance to the savory delights.
If you’re looking for similar dishes, you might enjoy a couscous salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a tabbouleh salad with its fresh herbs and vibrant flavors. But none hold the unique blend of textures and tastes that this Quinoa Salad with Cubeb Pepper dressing offers.
For more healthy recipes that are just as exciting, you might want to explore the Mediterranean chickpea salad at [Minimalist Baker](https://minimalistbaker.com/mediterranean-chickpea-salad/) or the colorful rainbow veggie quinoa salad on [Cookie and Kate](https://cookieandkate.com/rainbow-veggie-quinoa-salad/). Each of these options presents a delightful way to enjoy nutrient-rich meals without compromising on flavor.
Incorporating this salad into your diet means treating yourself to a dish that’s flavorful and fulfilling. It’s a recipe that captures the essence of different cultures while promoting a healthy lifestyle.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup mango, diced
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup cubeb pepper dressing (see below)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon cubeb pepper, finely ground
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Method
Step One
Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water. Combine quinoa, 2 cups water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until quinoa is tender and water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Fluff quinoa with a fork and let cool.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries, 1 cup blueberries, 1 cup diced mango, 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds, and 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves. Gently toss to mix.
Step Three
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon finely ground cubeb pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt to make the cubeb pepper dressing.
Step Four
Pour 1/4 cup cubeb pepper dressing over the quinoa salad mixture. Gently toss until the salad is well coated with the dressing. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Step Five
Serve the quinoa salad immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy your Quinoa Salad with Cubeb Pepper dressing!
