Quinoa Salad with Dried Fruit

When I find myself in New York, I always go to Whole Foods Market (see the report HERE) where they offer improbable salads that turn out to be very good every time (considering the price, it’s normal!). I offer you my version of one of these salads. The taste is unique and at first sight very surprising. But we quickly become addicted to this sweet and salty taste and to the mix of textures: the nuts are crunchy, the candied orange brings softness. All this with freshly chopped coriander and a little turmeric. It is simply addictive and above all very original! And moreover it is the occasion to use the quinoa differently… And with the beautiful days coming back, it’s the opportunity to put some pep in the picnics! 

Bring salted water to a boil, then add the quinoa and let it cook for 16 minutes, stirring from time to time.

Drain (in a fine sieve as the strainer would let the quinoa grains through).

Rinse with cold water to cool all the quinoa. 

Drain well, then transfer to a container and add the dried fruits: pecans, slivered almonds, grapes, candied oranges, cranberries, pumpkin seeds.

Also add the olive oil. 

Orange juice and honey.

Add salt, pepper and garlic powder (easily found in grocery stores Maghrebian or Asian).

Add also the turmeric. 

Mix well. 

I didn’t use too much cilantro, a tiny bunch is enough. 

Chop it finely and add it to the salad.

Mix well, it’s ready! Simply chill for two hours before serving. Of course, you have to taste to adjust the salt and pepper and to your own taste for the dosage of fruits. 

Serve small portions without overcrowding.