Meet your go-to most delicious and healthy quinoa salad! The best part is that you can totally make it ahead whenever you find time. The first time I brought this to a summer picnic, it was such a hit that I just had to share it here! Whether you need a quick lunch, a light lunch or dinner, or a tasty side dish on a crazy weekday, this salad has you covered. It’s healthy, tasty, and saves you time – a win-win for busy families! More Easy Quinoa Recipes!
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Serving Suggestions
Here are some ways to enjoy this mango quinoa salad as a light or full meal.
Quinoa – this is such a nutritious whole grain that’s packed with protein and fiber. Here’s how to cook quinoa perfectly. Mango – adds sweetness and tropical flair to the salad. Choose ripe mangoes that give slightly when gently squeezed. Here’s how to cut and serve mango to babies as well as delicious recipes. Fresh veggies – while you can use whatever vegetables you wish, I love the combination of cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Shrimp – a delicious protein source that complements the sweetness of the mango and tanginess of the lime dressing. Here’s how to cook shrimp and store to enjoy throughout the week. Black beans Dressing ingredients – a combination of lime juice (can also use lemon juice), olive oil, cumin, and paprika. Simple yet adds a ton of flavor!
Switch up the protein – instead of shrimp, add different protein, such as chicken, tofu, or salmon. Pair with crusty bread or tortilla chips for a tasty snack. Enjoy as a filling for tortillas. You can use regular corn or flour tortilla or these quinoa wraps or lentil wraps. Pack for a bento box lunch or picnic baskets for a convenient on-the-go meal.
For Babies
I wouldn’t serve this salad to babies as it has a lot of raw vegetables. But you can serve components of it so they can enjoy this meal alongside everyone else. Mash the avocado and combine with quinoa to prevent the tiny grains from flying everywhere (been there). You can also add finely chopped shrimp and serve a big stick of mango on the side – since it’s quite slippery, try coating with hemp or flax seeds. Will boost nutrition too! Here are our favorite baby’s plates, bowls, and spoons.
For Toddlers
Run your knife through the mixture to make sure there are no large pieces of shrimp and vegetables. If your child has a difficult time using their spoon or prefers to eat with their hands, combine the salad with mashed avocado to help bind the quinoa. If your child is not a fan of mixed dishes, try serving it deconstructed. Set aside a small portion of quinoa, veggies, mango, shrimp, and dressing before combining everything for the rest of the family. Allow your child to have full control over how they want to assemble.
Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me! This post was first published in 2013 and has been updated with more detailed instructions and serving suggestions for babies and kids.
