Craving something fresh, nutritious, and utterly delicious? Look no further than this Costco-inspired grain salad recipe that’s packed with flavors and textures to satisfy your taste buds and keep you fueled throughout the day.
Why This Recipe Works
- It’s a perfect balance of grains, veggies, and proteins, making it a hearty meal or side dish.
- The dressing is a simple yet flavorful combination that brings all the ingredients together.
- It’s customizable based on what you have in your pantry or fridge.
- Great for meal prep as it stays fresh and tasty for days.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked quinoa (cooled)
- 1 cup cooked farro (cooled)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Grains
Start by ensuring your quinoa and farro are cooked and cooled to room temperature. This prevents the salad from becoming mushy. If you’re in a hurry, spread the grains on a baking sheet to cool them faster. Tip: Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness.
Step 2: Chop the Veggies
Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion. Uniform pieces ensure every bite is balanced. Tip: Soak the red onion in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow its sharpness if desired.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This dressing is light yet flavorful, tying all the salad components together beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled grains, prepared veggies, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Tip: Add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual bowls. It’s ready to enjoy immediately, or you can let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together even more.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crunch, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds. If you’re making this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving to maintain the best texture. Experiment with different grains like barley or bulgur for variety. Fresh herbs like parsley or mint can add a refreshing twist. Lastly, don’t shy away from adding proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a more substantial meal.
Recipe Variations
- Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, artichoke hearts, and swap feta for goat cheese.
- Asian Flair: Use a sesame oil and rice vinegar dressing, add edamame, and top with sesame seeds.
- Summer Berry: Mix in fresh strawberries or blueberries and use a balsamic vinaigrette.
- Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños and a pinch of chili flakes in the dressing.
- Autumn Harvest: Roast butternut squash and Brussels sprouts to mix in for a seasonal version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Just store the dressing separately and add it when you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh and crisp.
What other grains can I use?
Feel free to experiment with your favorite grains. Barley, bulgur, or even brown rice would work well in this recipe. The key is to ensure they’re cooked and cooled properly before mixing.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this salad can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Remember, the fresher the ingredients, the longer it’ll stay tasty.
Summary
This Costco-inspired grain salad is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious option for any meal. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
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