Sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and fresh herbs blend beautifully with nutty quinoa and protein-rich edamame. Finished with a quick strawberry-balsamic dressing, this salad is light, vibrant, and ready in minutes. Perfect for brunch, picnics, or anytime you want a cheerful, protein- and fiber-packed meal!
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 1 ½ cups cooked and cooled quinoa
- 1 cup frozen edamame
- 1 ⅓ cups strawberries, hulled and sliced (divided)
- 2 oz fresh baby spinach
- 2 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup slivered almonds
- 2 Tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 2 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
- ½ tsp honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
*For a dairy-free version, omit goat cheese; for vegan, swap honey with agave syrup. You can also use romaine or your favorite greens instead of spinach.
Directions
Prepare the Edamame
Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add edamame and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool, then set aside.
Make the Dressing
In a blender or food processor, combine 1 Tbsp water, ⅓ cup strawberries, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and set aside.
Mix the Quinoa
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa with mint and dill. Drizzle with half of the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
Assemble the Salad
Divide spinach between two shallow bowls. Top with the quinoa-herb mixture, edamame, 1 cup of sliced strawberries, goat cheese, slivered almonds, and any remaining herbs. Drizzle with the remaining dressing and serve immediately.
FAQs
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the quinoa, dressing, and edamame in advance, but assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh. - Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, simply omit the goat cheese and replace honey with agave syrup. - Can I use fresh edamame instead of frozen?
Absolutely. Just cook them for a few minutes until tender, then cool before adding to the salad. - What other greens can I use?
Spinach works well, but you can also use romaine, arugula, or mixed baby greens. - Can I add more protein?
Yes! Grilled chicken, tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas can be added to boost protein content. - Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes, blueberries, raspberries, or diced peaches work beautifully with this salad. - How long will this salad stay fresh?
The quinoa mixture can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but assemble the salad fresh to maintain texture and flavor. - Can I make the dressing in advance?
Yes, it can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake well before using. - Can I omit the almonds?
Yes, or swap them with other nuts or seeds like walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds. - Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities. - Can I serve this salad warm?
Yes, slightly warm quinoa can be tossed with the ingredients, but the salad is typically served chilled or at room temperature. - Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Simply double all ingredients to serve more people.
Conclusion
This Strawberry, Edamame & Goat Cheese Quinoa Salad is a light, vibrant, and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion. Sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, nutty quinoa, and protein-packed edamame come together with fresh herbs and a tangy strawberry-balsamic dressing to create a salad that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Easy to prepare and full of fiber and protein, it’s ideal for brunch, picnics, or a quick healthy lunch.