Description
A refreshing and vibrant green salad featuring tender spring greens, fresh parsley, protein-rich quinoa, and tangy blue cheese, dressed with a zesty lemon and mustard vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish that balances earthiness with bright citrus flavors and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 300g baby leaf spring greens, any tough stalks removed, leaves finely sliced
- ½ large bunch of parsley, chopped
- 250g ready-cooked quinoa
- 1 small red onion, finely sliced
- 100g blue cheese, crumbled (ensure vegetarian if needed)
- 35g walnuts, roughly chopped (optional)
Dressing
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp rapeseed oil
Instructions
- Soften the Spring Greens: Boil water in a kettle and pour over the baby leaf spring greens in a large heatproof bowl. Let them stand for 2 minutes to soften slightly. Drain well and spread the greens on kitchen paper to absorb excess water, leaving them to cool for 2 minutes.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a separate bowl, toss the chopped parsley, ready-cooked quinoa, and finely sliced red onion together. Add the softened spring greens, then scatter the crumbled blue cheese on top. Gently toss all the salad ingredients together using your hands to combine evenly.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together the lemon zest and juice, Dijon mustard, and rapeseed oil in a small jug until well combined.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Transfer the salad to a large serving platter or individual bowls, then sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top if using. Serve the salad immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors.
Notes
- Use ready-cooked quinoa to save preparation time.
- Ensure the blue cheese is vegetarian friendly if dietary requirements apply.
- Walnuts are optional but add a pleasant crunch and extra nutrients.
- Serve immediately to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes (softening greens)
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: green salad, parsley, blue cheese, quinoa salad, healthy lunch, easy salad recipe, lemon dressing
