Dive into a vibrant and refreshing salad that’s a delightful fusion of crunchy textures and zesty flavors. This quinoa-based dish is adorned with a medley of colorful vegetables like purple cabbage, red bell pepper, and crisp carrots, all harmoniously mingling with the nutty undertones of almonds. The thinly sliced green onions and fresh coriander add a burst of freshness, while the creamy cashew butter dressing, infused with hints of garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, drapes over the ingredients, binding them in a luscious embrace. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a side dish that steals the show, this salad promises a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa
1/4 purple cabbage
2 carrots
1 red bell pepper/capsicum
2 green onions (scallions/salad onions), thinly sliced
1/2 bunch fresh coriander (cilantro)
½ cup almonds
Dressing
¼ cup cashew butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
3 tbsp tamari or Bragg liquid aminos
2 tbsp rice malt syrup
2 tbsp warm water
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
1) Prepare the quinoa by putting in a saucepan with 1 cup of water, bring to the boil and then turn to simmer for 10 mins or until all of the water is gone and the quinoa has ‘un coiled’
2) Blend the dressing ingredients together
3) Prepare the veggies by finely slicing the cabbage, cutting the carrot into ribbons with a vegetable peeler and then finely slicing into strips, dice the pepper, thinly slice the green onions and roughly chop the coriander.
4) You can slice the almonds or leave whole
5) Mix the quinoa and veggies and almonds in a large bowl and liberally dress with the dressing
Health Benefits
Dive into a dish that’s not just a culinary delight but also a treasure trove of wellness:
Quinoa: Celebrated as a nutritional powerhouse, quinoa offers a full spectrum of amino acids, making it a complete protein. Its abundant fiber aids digestion and promotes satiety, while its rich mineral content supports overall health.
Purple Cabbage: Beyond its striking hue lies a wealth of antioxidants, notably vitamin C, fortifying the immune system. Its anthocyanins are known to combat inflammation and potentially shield the heart.
Carrots: These crunchy delights are teeming with beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, vital for sharp vision and robust immunity.
Red Bell Pepper: A vibrant source of vitamins C and A, these peppers enhance immunity and skin vitality. Their inherent antioxidants, like quercetin, are believed to soothe inflammation.
Green Onions: Laden with vitamin K, they support blood coagulation and bone strength. Their inherent antioxidants bolster immune defenses.
Coriander (Cilantro): Beyond its aromatic allure, coriander is revered for its detoxifying prowess. It’s a reservoir of dietary fiber and vitamins, with potential to quell inflammation.
Almonds: These crunchy kernels are a wellspring of heart-healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin E. Their regular intake can harmonize heart rhythms and stabilize blood sugar.
Cashew Butter Dressing: Creamy cashews are rich in copper, vital for energy synthesis and neural activities.
Garlic and Ginger: Both these culinary staples are renowned for their therapeutic traits. While garlic is a potent shield against ailments, ginger alleviates digestive discomforts and curbs nausea.
Tamari/Bragg Liquid Aminos: These savory condiments, free from gluten, are brimming with amino acids, essential for protein synthesis.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Revered for its ability to modulate blood sugar, it also fosters digestion and exhibits germ-fighting properties.
Sesame Oil: This aromatic oil is a fount of antioxidants with potential anti-inflammatory effects, enriched with heart-nurturing fats.
In essence, this salad is a symphony of nutrients, harmonizing to bolster immunity, invigorate the heart, and streamline digestion.
