360 Family Nutrition

Kristen Smith, MS, RDN

Quinoa Taco Salad

by

I first discovered the “Quinoa Taco Salad” recipe a few months ago during the creation of the Spinach Quinoa Taquitos.  I decided to add the leftover quinoa mixture to my salad greens to change up my standard salad.  The result was a delicious lower calorie salad with a taco inspired flavor.  One of the most favorable aspects of the salad is the creamy flavor – thus not requiring additional salad dressing.  If you absolutely must add a salad dressing I would recommend one tablespoon of olive oil.
 Typically quinoa produces a nutty flavor different than most grains.  First-timers to quinoa are usually not keen on the flavor.  Luckily with this recipe the ingredients mask the flavor without adding significant calories.  
A few other quinoa recipes you might enjoy are Quinoa Parmesan and Quinoa Sliders with a Cucumber Bun. 
Enjoy this recipe as a complete vegetarian meal or on your next “Meatless Monday”!
Enjoy!
Your family’s dietitian,
Kristen Smith












Quinoa Taco Salad





by Kristen Smith



Prep Time: 30 minutes














Ingredients (4 servings (8 cups))


    

  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
    • 

  • 4 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
    • 

  • 1/4 – 1/2 cup low fat cheddar cheese, shredded
    • 

  • 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
    • 

  • 6-8 cups raw spinach leaves
    • 

  • 1 tomato, diced
    • 

  • optional: olive oil
    • 








Instructions



1.  Prepare quinoa as per package instructions.



2.  Add yogurt, cheese, and taco seasoning; mix well



3.  Divide spinach leaves into 4 bowls; add quinoa and tomato (beans or corn)



Optional: drizzle each serving with 1 tablespoon of olive oil


Nutrition:



Serving size: 1/4  recipe • Servings: 4 • Calories: 218.1 kcal • Protein: 10.7 g • Sodium: 320.9 mg • Carbs: 35.2 g • Fat: 4.5 g • Fiber: 4.3 • Sugars: 3.8 g





Powered by Recipage





Reader Interactions
Comments
    
	
  1. 
	
	
    2.