Pea Shoots, with their delicate tendrils and leaves, offer a subtle, sweet flavor and a refreshing crunch that embodies the essence of spring. This Pea Shoots and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette recipe combines the fresh vitality of pea shoots with the nutty wholesomeness of quinoa, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s a nutritional powerhouse, perfect as a light main course or a vibrant side dish, sure to bring a refreshing burst of flavor to your mealtime.
Ingredients:
Pea Shoots https://greenelly.com/product/jonathans-organic-pea-shoots-6-oz/ (4 cups, fresh)
Cooked Quinoa (2 cups, cooled)
Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved)
Cucumber (1 medium, diced)
Red Onion (1/4 cup, finely chopped)
Feta Cheese (1/3 cup, crumbled, optional)
Lemon Vinaigrette:
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1/4 cup)
Lemon (1, juiced and zested)
Honey or Agave Syrup (1 tablespoon)
Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon)
Garlic (1 clove, minced)
Salt (to taste)
Black Pepper (to taste)
Fresh Mint (for garnish, optional)
Sunflower Seeds (for garnish, optional)
Steps to Prepare:
Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey (or agave syrup), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, gently toss the pea shoots, cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad ingredients, tossing gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes to absorb the dressing.
Add Cheese: If using, sprinkle the feta cheese over the salad for an extra layer of salty, tangy flavor.
Garnish: Just before serving, garnish the salad with fresh mint leaves and sunflower seeds if using, for an additional pop of color and texture.
Serve: Dish out into individual bowls or onto a large serving platter. This salad is best enjoyed fresh to experience the crispness of the pea shoots and the vibrancy of the vegetables.
Pea Shoots and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a celebration of spring’s fresh produce, delivering a wonderful blend of textures and flavors. The sweet crispness of pea shoots, the heartiness of quinoa, and the tang of the lemon vinaigrette create a delectably refreshing dish. Perfect for health-conscious individuals, those seeking a culinary adventure, or anyone in need of a quick and satisfying meal, this salad is sure to delight. Let this dish brighten your table, nourish your body, and refresh your palate with each delightful, healthful bite.
