Indulge in Wholesome Delight with My Flexitarian Fig and Quinoa Salad Recipe!
Hello once again, wonderful readers! If you've been keeping up with my recent posts, you're likely already familiar with the fantastic health benefits that figs bring to the table. From improving digestion to delivering essential vitamins, these little fruits are nutritional powerhouses. Today, I'm elevating figs to new heights by sharing a recipe that's not only good for you but also absolutely delicious. My Flexitarian Fig and Quinoa Salad embodies balance and flavor, promising a meal that's not only nourishing but a treat for your taste buds.
Please forgive the lack of a proper photo of this amazing dish. I'll make sure to post the finished product the next time I prepare this recipe. Now let's get started!
Recipe: Flexitarian Fig and Quinoa Salad Bowl
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked quinoa (prepared according to package instructions)
4-6 fresh figs, sliced
1 cup baby spinach or mixed greens
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (if desired)
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Craft the Dressing: In a small bowl, blend the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, and a touch of salt and pepper. Set aside for now.
Assemble the Symphony: In a spacious mixing bowl, unite the cooked quinoa, baby spinach or mixed greens, and the delightful crunch of chopped nuts. Gently toss to create a harmonious blend.
Invite the Figs: Gracefully lay the sliced figs atop the quinoa and greens ensemble.
Drizzle with Enchantment: Anoint your creation with the dressing, ensuring that every nook and cranny is kissed with its flavor.
Optional Grand Finale: If you wish, adorn your masterpiece with the creamy flourish of crumbled feta cheese.
Serve with a Flourish: Portion out your creation into individual serving bowls and delight in the wonderful tapestry of flavors!
Nutrition Facts (approximate):
Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: ~350-400 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~45-50g
Protein: ~8-10g
Fat: ~15-20g
Fiber: ~6-8g
Healthy Benefits of the Ingredients:
Figs: Figs are rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and providing a feeling of fullness. They're also a good source of vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin K, and various B vitamins.
Quinoa: Quinoa is a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids. It's also high in fiber, aiding in digestion and providing sustained energy release.
Spinach: Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and folate. It's low in calories and rich in antioxidants.
Nuts: Walnuts and almonds are heart-healthy nuts that provide healthy fats (omega-3 fatty acids), protein, and fiber. They also offer a good amount of vitamin E and minerals like magnesium.
Feta Cheese: Feta cheese, in moderation, adds a tangy flavor and a source of calcium and protein. Choose reduced-fat versions if desired.
Balsamic Vinegar and Olive Oil: These provide healthy fats and antioxidants, promoting heart health and providing a flavorful dressing option.
Serving Suggestions:
Be sure to give my Flexitarian Fig and Quinoa Salad a try as a stand-alone star. And guess what? It's a fantastic match with grilled chicken, tofu, or even a classic bean salad – just to give your protein intake a little boost. Feel free to enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or as a refreshing addition to your next get-together.
Recommended Storage:
Should any of this magical salad remain, house it in an airtight container in your refrigerator. Make sure to add the dressing right before you eat the salad. This will help the greens stay fresh and full of flavor.
Conclusion:
In this Flexitarian Fig and Quinoa Salad, I've combined wonderful flavors and nourishment. Say hello to a meal that's both good for you and delicious. If you missed my earlier posts about figs, catch up for more reasons to enjoy this fantastic fruit. As you enjoy this dish, feel free to share your successes with me using the hashtags #HealthyFigs and #NutritiousDelights. Here's to staying healthy and enjoying every bite!
