Name: Warm Quinoa and Spinach Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup dry quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth (or water); 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; ¼ cup red onion, finely diced; ⅓ cup toasted almonds or walnuts, chopped; ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional, for sweetness); 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp honey or maple syrup; Salt & black pepper to taste

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If you are on the lookout for a dish that is both nurturing and packed with vibrant flavors, then this Warm Quinoa and Spinach Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Bringing together fluffy quinoa, freshly wilted spinach, and a punchy lemon vinaigrette, it offers a perfect balance of warmth and freshness that’s ideal any time of year. This salad feels like a warm hug on a plate, with every bite delivering delicious textures from crunchy nuts and a touch of sweetness from dried cranberries. Whether as a wholesome side or a satisfying main, it’s a versatile recipe sure to become a fast favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clean white marbled surface with various ingredients neatly arranged. There are two large orange sweet potatoes placed diagonally on the right. Near the top center is a small white bowl filled with creamy white sauce. To the left of that is a clear bowl filled with round, light beige grains. Below these, several fresh green leaves and herbs are spread out, including parsley, arugula, and spinach. A small red onion and a whole avocado sit near the group of greens. On the bottom left are toasted pecans and bright red dried cranberries placed close together. A clear glass container with golden olive oil is positioned above the greens. The whole arrangement is colorful and balanced, with natural textures and colors contrasting on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this salad lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building flavors and textures that complement each other beautifully. From the nutty quinoa to the crisp spinach and zesty vinaigrette, these essentials come together effortlessly for a homey yet vibrant dish.

1 cup dry quinoa, rinsed: The heart of the salad, quinoa brings a tender, slightly nutty base that is packed with protein.
2 cups vegetable broth (or water): Infuses the quinoa with a subtle richness while cooking.
3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Adds wonderful color and gently wilts into the warm quinoa for a luscious texture.
¼ cup red onion, finely diced: Provides a sharp bite that cuts through the richness and adds crunch.
⅓ cup toasted almonds or walnuts, chopped: Toasted nuts offer a satisfying crunch and a deep, toasty flavor.
¼ cup dried cranberries (optional, for sweetness): Balances the earthiness with little bursts of fruity sweetness.
3 tbsp olive oil: Forms the luscious base for the vinaigrette, bringing smoothness and depth.
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Introduces bright acidity, waking up the flavors beautifully.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and helps emulsify the dressing for perfect coating.
1 tsp honey or maple syrup: A touch of sweetness to balance the tart lemon and mustard.
Salt & black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all elements together.

How to Make Warm Quinoa and Spinach Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Start with rinsing your quinoa to wash away its natural coating, which can taste bitter. Combine the quinoa and vegetable broth in a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed. This step ensures your quinoa finishes with a fluffy, tender texture that soaks up all the flavors.

Step 2: Wilt the Spinach

Immediately after removing the pot from heat, stir in the roughly chopped spinach and cover the pan. The residual heat will wilt the spinach just the right amount in about 2 to 3 minutes, letting it soften while maintaining its bright color and nutrients. This warm bed of spinach mixed with quinoa creates the comforting heart of this salad.

Step 3: Mix in Aromatics and Nuts

Fluff the quinoa and spinach mixture gently with a fork, then fold in the finely diced red onion and toasted nuts. The onions bring a mild pungency, while the nuts add a toasty crunch that contrasts with the soft quinoa and tender greens.

Step 4: Prepare and Add the Lemon Vinaigrette

Whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and black pepper until emulsified. Pour this vibrant dressing over your warm quinoa salad and toss everything carefully to coat. This vinaigrette is what truly lifts the recipe, bringing brightness and a perfect tang to the dish.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve this salad immediately while everything is still warm to enjoy its full comforting effect. The blend of flavors and textures shines beautifully at this stage.

How to Serve Warm Quinoa and Spinach Salad Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with a colorful quinoa salad placed on a white marbled surface. The salad has a base layer of fluffy, light tan quinoa mixed with small bright orange carrot pieces and small green broccoli or herb bits. On the right side of the bowl, there is half an avocado, neatly sliced but still together in a fanned shape, showing its rich green color. The bowl is resting on a white cloth with green stripes in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can turn this simple salad into something special. Consider sprinkling some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy and tangy twist. Fresh herbs like parsley or mint bring an herbal brightness that pairs wonderfully with the quinoa and spinach, enhancing every bite.

Side Dishes

This salad stands well on its own but also pairs excellently with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or fish. Its fresh and warm profile complements heartier mains, making your meal balanced and flavorful without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the salad bowl! Serve this Warm Quinoa and Spinach Salad Recipe stuffed inside vibrant bell peppers or alongside avocado slices for a colorful, eye-catching plate. You can also assemble it in mason jars for a grab-and-go lunch that keeps well and looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it a great option for next-day lunches or quick dinners. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature for a refreshing twist.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen. The texture of the greens and nuts can change unpleasantly when frozen, so freezing is not recommended if you want to maintain that perfect bite.

Reheating

If you prefer to eat it warm after storing, gently reheat the quinoa and spinach mixture in a microwave or a pan over low heat. Avoid overheating to keep the spinach from becoming too soggy. Add the vinaigrette fresh or toss again lightly with any dressing left on the salad before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Absolutely! Baby kale, swiss chard, or arugula can work well. Just make sure to adjust the wilting time to the sturdiness of the greens you choose.

Is this salad vegan?

This Warm Quinoa and Spinach Salad Recipe is naturally vegan when using maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

What nut alternatives can I use?

If you’re allergic to nuts, sunflower or pumpkin seeds offer a great alternative crunch without compromising the texture.

Can I add protein to make this a full meal?

Definitely. Toss in cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken breast, or even some seared tofu for a protein boost that complements the flavors perfectly.

How long does the salad keep fresh?

When refrigerated promptly, it stays fresh for about 3 days. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy weeks, maintaining flavor and texture well.

Final Thoughts

This Warm Quinoa and Spinach Salad Recipe is one of those recipes that feels like a nourishing embrace with every forkful. It’s easy to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and flexible enough for countless variations to suit your taste. I encourage you to try it soon and discover just how simple and satisfying a warm salad can be!