What To Serve With Quinoa Salad? 11 Best Side Dishes

If you’re looking for a light and healthy meal, then quinoa salad is the perfect choice.

But what to serve with it?

Quinoa salad pairs well with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or beef. You can also serve it with a variety of vegetables such as roasted bell peppers and tomatoes, steamed broccoli and cauliflower, carrots, or green beans. Top the quinoa salad off with some feta cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Whether your meal is vegan, vegetarian or Paleo-friendly, there are so many delicious side dish options that pair perfectly with this grain-based dish!

I have compiled 11 of my favorite sides to accompany a hearty bowl of quinoa salad.

From oven-roasted vegetables and kale chips, to appetizing dips and flavorful pizzas – these recipes will tempt even the pickiest of eaters!

So let’s dig in and explore some tantalizing dishes that make an amazing accompaniment to your nutritious quinoa salad.

Read Also: What To Eat With Quinoa? 15 Best Side Dishes

Why Consider Serving Side Dishes with Quinoa Salad?

• Nutritional Benefits: Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs but cannot produce on its own. It is also high in fiber and low in fat, making it an ideal side dish for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
• Variety of Flavors: Quinoa salad can be served with a variety of flavors such as lemon juice, garlic, herbs, nuts and seeds, vegetables or fruits depending on the desired taste profile. This allows for endless possibilities when creating unique dishes to serve alongside other meals.
• Versatility: Quinoa salad can be served hot or cold and can easily be made ahead of time so that it’s ready to go when needed. Additionally, quinoa salads are often vegan-friendly which makes them suitable for any dietary restrictions guests may have at your gathering or event.

What To Serve With Quinoa Salad? 11 Best Side Dishes

A quinoa salad is a delicious and nutritious meal, but it can be tricky to know what side dishes to serve with it.

Here are 11 of the best side dishes that will pair perfectly with your quinoa salad:

1. Balsamic Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan

This balsamic grilled zucchini with Parmesan is the perfect side dish to complement a quinoa salad.

The flavors of the slightly sweet and tart balsamic vinegar counterbalance the light, citrusy acidic elements of the salads dressing.

Meanwhile, fragrant herbs like parsley add an earthy flavor that perfectly complements all components on your plate.

But it’s not just about taste; this side also adds variety to your plate for both aesthetic and nutritional benefits!

2. Red Cabbage and Carrot Slaw

Let’s be honest, quinoa can sometimes feel a bit boring. Kick up the flavor and crunch with a red cabbage and carrot slaw.

With simple shredded vegetables, roasted peanuts, and honey-lime dressing – this superfood salad will suddenly become something to get very excited about!

Plus, the bright colors of the ingredients bring an extra wow-factor to your table.

3. Easy Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices

Quinoa is a great base for any salad — and it’s even better with a sweet side dish.

Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices bring some natural sweetness to the plate.

These crisp, cinnamon-spiced apples make an absolutely delicious complement to your quinoa salad.

The contrast in tastes will leave you wanting more!

And don’t forget that they’re also healthy — loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

A perfect balance of flavor and nutrition!

4. Mexican Street Corn Fritters

Who doesn’t love a good quinoa salad? It’s packed with flavor, but the perfect way to make it even tastier is by adding Mexican street corn fritters.

The irresistible combination of sweet corn and savory spices will tantalize your taste buds like no other!

A handful of toppings – from chili powder to cotija cheese – will bring this healthy dish to life in a heartbeat.

Plus, quinoa salads are loaded with protein which makes them great for fueling up after a workout or just relaxing at home after a long day.

Go on, treat yourself!

5. Classic Gazpacho

The classic flavors of gazpacho and the nutrition-packed quinoa salad make an unbeatable pair.

Gazpacho cuts through the creaminess of the quinoa, making it twice as refreshing.

The sweetness in the pepper and tomatoes balances out the slight earthiness from onions and garlic, creating a flavorful blend for your mouth to love.

Don’t forget a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese – you won’t be sorry!

6. Grilled Chicken in Cilantro Lime

A quinoa salad may seem a bit boring and grain-y to some people, but adding grilled chicken packs some needed protein.

And not just any type of grilled chicken!

The cilantro lime marinade adds an incredible depth to the dish.

It’s like turning up the volume on flavor until you can practically hear it singing from your plate.

Such joy in such simplicity!

The warmth of the seasoned chicken makes each bite better than the last…and that final hint of lime leaves you ask for more every time.

7. Honey Sriracha Tofu

Sriracha and honey always seem to make a winning combo.

When you add in the smoky flavor of tofu and nutty quinoa, it’s an unbeatable combination that will have your mouth watering.

The sweetness from the honey pairs with the spice of sriracha to give each bite layers of flavor – while the tofu adds substance and texture.

A crunchy vegetable salad provides an amazing contrast, which makes this dish light yet flavorful at the same time!

8. Pulled Pork Sandwich

• What Is It? A pulled pork sandwich is a classic American dish made with slow-cooked, shredded pork that has been cooked in a flavorful sauce. The pork is usually served on a bun or roll and topped with coleslaw, pickles, and other condiments.
• Serving Them Together: Pulled pork sandwiches are delicious when served alongside quinoa salad. The nutty flavor of the quinoa pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory flavors of the pulled pork. Quinoa also adds texture to the sandwich, making it more filling and satisfying. For an extra kick of flavor, top your sandwich with some spicy salsa or hot sauce!

9. Curry Seasoned Roasted Cauliflower

• What Is It? Curry seasoned roasted cauliflower is a delicious and easy side dish that can be served with quinoa salad. The cauliflower is cut into florets, tossed in a mixture of curry powder, olive oil, garlic, and salt, then roasted until golden brown and tender. The result is a flavorful vegetable dish that pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of quinoa.
• Serving Them Together: Quinoa salad can be served as an entrée or side dish on its own but it’s even better when paired with curry seasoned roasted cauliflower. The combination of flavors creates a balanced meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Serve the two together for lunch or dinner to make sure you get all the nutrients your body needs!

10. Pad Thai

• What Is It? Pad Thai is a popular Thai dish made with stir-fried rice noodles, eggs, and vegetables. It is usually served with a variety of condiments such as fish sauce, chili flakes, peanuts, and lime wedges.
• Serving Them Together: Don’t serve your quinoa salad by itself! Instead, pair it with a delicious pad thai for an easy yet flavorful meal. The nutty flavor of the quinoa pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the pad thai. Plus, you can add in some extra veggies to make it even healthier! Serve both dishes together for a complete meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.

11. Black Bean Burrito Bowls

• What Is It? A black bean burrito bowl is a delicious and nutritious meal that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the health benefits of quinoa. The base of this dish is cooked quinoa, which is then topped with black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, bell peppers, onions, cilantro, and avocado. All these ingredients are combined in a bowl and served with a side of salsa or guacamole for added flavor.
• Serving Them Together: Serving your quinoa salad alongside black bean burrito bowls makes for an easy and complete meal. The combination provides all the essential nutrients you need to stay healthy while also satisfying your taste buds. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you may have from making either dish separately!

Conclusion

In conclusion, quinoa salad is a flavorful and healthy dish that can be served with a variety of delicious sides.

The best sides to serve with quinoa salad are marinated and grilled zucchini, carrot and cabbage slaw, nutmeg and cinnamon apples, cilantro lime corn pancakes, classic gazpacho, grilled chicken in cilantro lime, fried tofu with sriracha, pulled pork sandwich, curry seasoned roasted cauliflower, and pad Thai.

These sides will make your quinoa salad even more delicious and are sure to be a hit with your guests.

With so many options to choose from, you’ll never run out of ideas for what to serve with quinoa salad.