Quinoa Pomegranate Salad with Orange Tahini Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is the perfect combination of textures and flavors: the nutty quinoa, sweet and tart pomegranate, crunchy cucumbers, and apples create a fresh and satisfying base. The orange tahini dressing adds a creamy, citrusy element that brings everything together. It’s a versatile salad that’s light enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for holiday gatherings. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients, making it a great option for nearly any dietary preference.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 pomegranate, seeded (about 1 cup pomegranate seeds)
• 6 scallions, sliced
• 2 Persian cucumbers, diced (about 1 ½ cups diced)
• 1 medium apple, diced (about 1 cup diced)
• ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds

For the Orange Tahini Dressing

• 3 tablespoon tahini
• 2 tablespoon fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Water (as needed to thin)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water and ½ teaspoon of salt to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the rest of the salad. Seed the pomegranate and set aside the seeds. Slice the scallions, dice the cucumbers and apple, and toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until golden and fragrant.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, fresh orange juice, maple syrup (or agave), olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Add water, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth and pourable consistency.
4. Assemble the Salad: Once the quinoa has cooled, combine it with the pomegranate seeds, scallions, cucumbers, and apple in a large bowl. Drizzle with the orange tahini dressing and toss gently to combine.
5. Garnish and Serve: Top the salad with the toasted sliced almonds. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For added protein, consider topping the salad with roasted chickpeas, grilled tofu, or a sprinkle of hemp seeds.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or cilantro can be added to the salad for a burst of freshness.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the dressing for a subtle spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer to serve it warm, simply heat the quinoa before assembling the salad.

FAQs

Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with other grains like couscous, farro, or rice. Just be sure to cook the grains according to their package instructions.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. Just store the quinoa and salad ingredients separately from the dressing. Combine everything and add the dressing just before serving.

Can I use a different fruit instead of apple?

Yes, you can swap the apple for pears, grapes, or even citrus segments, depending on your preference.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses quinoa and fresh vegetables.

Can I make this salad without pomegranate?

If pomegranate isn’t available, you can substitute it with dried cranberries, raisins, or even chopped fresh berries for a similar burst of sweetness and color.

Can I use a different nut instead of almonds?

Yes, you can use other nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a different texture and flavor.

Can I use store-bought tahini?

Yes, store-bought tahini works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just make sure to stir it well before using as it can separate.

Can I make the dressing without maple syrup?

You can substitute maple syrup with honey (if not vegan), agave nectar, or any sweetener of your choice.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?

Yes, regular cucumbers will work too. Just make sure to remove the seeds and slice them thinly for the best texture.

How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

If you’re making this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Conclusion

Quinoa Pomegranate Salad with Orange Tahini Dressing is a light, refreshing, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of quinoa, fresh vegetables, and sweet fruits is complemented by the creamy, tangy dressing, making it a balanced and vibrant salad that everyone will love. Whether served as a main or a side dish, it’s sure to brighten up any meal with its burst of flavors and colors.

Print