Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Air-Fried Collard Greens and Dried Fruits
What Started it all:
Quinoa, Collard greens, dried fruits (raisins, apricots), air fryer
This Mediterranean-inspired quinoa salad is a perfect blend of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. It's packed with protein from the quinoa, nutrients from the collard greens, and a touch of sweetness from the dried fruits. A great dish to share with family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins and apricots), chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside to cool.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss the chopped collard greens with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the collard greens in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches.
- Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the greens are crispy and slightly browned.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, air-fried collard greens, and chopped dried fruits.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine evenly.
- Transfer the quinoa salad to a serving platter or individual plates.
- Garnish with additional lemon wedges or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
This Mediterranean quinoa salad is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It's a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables and whole grains into your diet. Enjoy this dish as a light lunch or a side for your favorite main course, and savor the goodness of fresh, seasonal ingredients!