Quinoa, Pistachio and Pomegranate Salad

Hello friends!!

Summer is here!! We want fresh, colorful dishes!!

That’s why my quinoa, pistachio and pomegranate salad is just perfect!!

A salad packed with good things

Okay, it’s a bit reductive not to give it a fuller name because it’s not just quinoa, pistachios and pomegranate!! As you can clearly see from my photos, this salad includes loads of ingredients—each more colorful and flavorful than the next!! And in ultra-light mode!!

This quinoa salad will easily complement the list of my barbecue salads already featured on the blog.

The composition of my quinoa, pistachio and pomegranate salad

And since it’s a rather summery salad, we’re sticking to seasonal ingredients: radishes (from my garden here!!), cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, mint (also from my garden 😉 ), pistachios and pomegranate. In short, it’s bursting with flavor and freshness!!

The Nutritional Benefits of Quinoa: A Seed Full of Virtues

Quinoa, often considered a cereal, is actually a seed native to the Andes, cultivated for millennia by pre-Columbian civilizations. Today, it’s recognized worldwide for its exceptional nutritional qualities.

Rich in complete proteins, quinoa contains all essential amino acids, making it an excellent alternative to animal proteins, especially for vegetarians and vegans. It’s also distinguished by its high fiber content, promoting satiety and healthy digestion.

Naturally gluten-free, quinoa is ideal for those with intolerances or celiac disease. It’s also a good source of essential minerals: iron, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc, all contributing to metabolism, bone health and a strong immune system.

On top of its nutritional value, quinoa has a low glycemic index, helping to stabilize blood sugar and prevent cravings. Easy to cook, it adapts to many recipes, both sweet and savory.

So quinoa combines pleasure, balance and variety, and stands as a key food in a healthy modern diet.

(Presentation: Modulo Abstraction plates by Degrenne)

Pomegranate: a true superfood

With its thick skin and ruby-red seeds called arils, the pomegranate is one of the oldest fruits cultivated by humans. Native to the Middle East and Asia, it’s now known for its many nutritional and medicinal benefits.

Rich in antioxidants, pomegranate helps fight cell aging and oxidative stress. It contains polyphenols, like tannins and anthocyanins, that protect cells and strengthen the immune system. It’s also an excellent source of vitamin C, vital for skin, natural defenses, and iron absorption.

Regular consumption may benefit cardiovascular health. In fact, pomegranate helps reduce blood pressure and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, while promoting healthy blood circulation.

Low in calories, hydrating and refreshing, it’s perfect for a balanced diet. Its fiber aids digestion and gives lasting satiety.

Versatile, pomegranate is easily integrated into salads, juices, desserts or even savory dishes. It’s as delightful for the taste buds as it is beneficial for health.

In short, pomegranate is a precious fruit, as good for your palate as it is for your health.

My tips for your quinoa, pistachio and pomegranate salad

I recommend using a flavorful oil for your salad—you’re going to love it. 

This salad will easily serve as a vegetarian dinner (or simply meat-free). Add some grilled chicken, and that should be amazing too!!

You can also serve it as a tasty starter before a heartier dish, or in small appetizer verrines if you chop the ingredients finely enough.

Other fresh salad ideas you might enjoy

In addition to my delicious quinoa, pistachio and pomegranate salad, I love exploring other summer flavor combinations that bring freshness and color to our plates. For example, the mango and avocado salad is a burst of sweetness and creaminess, perfect for those looking for a tropical touch. And if you’re in the mood for something bolder, why not try the burrata, tomato and grapefruit salad? It combines the creaminess of burrata with the acidity of grapefruit for a surprising and refreshing result. These recipes are perfect for mixing things up while staying in the summer spirit! Shall we get started?

The recipe, Chef!

Print Recipe

Quinoa, Pistachio and Pomegranate Salad

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vegetarian – French

Serves: 3 Difficulty: Easy Price: $

Prep Time: 20 min – Cooking Time: 12 min

Ingredients

• 120 g quinoa
• 3 radishes
• 1/2 avocado
• A good chunk of cucumber (about 10 cm)
• 5 mint leaves
• 1 wedge of pomegranate
• 1 handful of pistachios
• 9 cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 white onion
• 3 tablespoons rapeseed oil with sesame flavor (or olive oil)
• 1/2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt
• Pepper

Instructions

1

Cook your quinoa according to the package instructions.

2

Meanwhile, wash, peel, and thinly slice the vegetables (radishes, avocado, tomatoes, onion). Cut the cucumber into cubes.

3

Toast the pistachios dry in a pan for a few minutes.

4

Remove the seeds from the pomegranate wedge (warning: wear an apron—it stains!).

5

Place the cooked quinoa in a colander and rinse it with cold water. Drain well by pressing gently to remove excess water.

6

Put the quinoa in a large bowl, then add the vegetables, pomegranate seeds, pistachios, and chopped mint.

7

Add the oil and balsamic vinegar.

8

Season with salt and pepper. It’s ready to serve!