If you’re looking for a salad that combines both texture and flavor, this Elevated Quinoa Salad with Walnuts, Dates, and Chickpeas is the perfect dish. It’s a delightful mix of crunchy, sweet, tangy, and savory, all in one bowl. This salad is a great way to elevate your regular quinoa meal into something special, packed with nutrients and vibrant flavors. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a light main, this salad is sure to impress.
The combination of nutrient-dense ingredients like quinoa, chickpeas, walnuts, and dates creates a well-rounded meal that is both filling and energizing. Plus, the dressing made with pomegranate molasses, cumin, sumac, and cinnamon adds a beautiful depth of flavor that ties everything together perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth (for extra flavor)
• 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup dates, chopped
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for richness)
• 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses (for a tangy-sweet twist)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp cumin powder (for warmth)
• 1 tsp sumac (for a tart, lemony note)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Cook the Quinoa:
In a saucepan, bring the quinoa and water (or vegetable broth) to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.

2. Toast the Walnuts:
While the quinoa is cooking, toast the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until fragrant. Set aside to cool.

3. Prepare the Vegetables and Dates:
Dice the cucumber, slice the red onion, and halve the tomatoes. Chop the dates into small pieces.

4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, walnuts, dates, cucumber, red onion, tomatoes, and chickpeas. Toss gently.

5. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, cumin powder, sumac, cinnamon (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.

6. Toss and Serve:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together. Garnish with chopped coriander. Adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Optional Additions:

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a salty contrast that balances the sweetness of the dates and the tang of the pomegranate molasses.
• Avocado: Diced avocado brings extra creaminess and richness to the salad.
• Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts provide an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
• Arugula: A handful of arugula will add a peppery bite and a boost of greens.

Health Benefits:

This elevated quinoa salad is more than just delicious – it’s packed with a variety of nutrients that contribute to your overall health:

• Quinoa: Known as a complete protein, quinoa provides all 9 essential amino acids, making it a fantastic plant-based protein source. It’s also high in fiber, which supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar.
• Chickpeas: Chickpeas are rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. They help support muscle growth, regulate blood sugar, and improve heart health.
• Walnuts: Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiovascular health. They also provide a healthy dose of antioxidants.
• Dates: Dates are packed with natural sugars, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium and magnesium. They provide an energy boost and help with digestion.
• Pomegranate Molasses: This tangy-sweet ingredient adds antioxidants, supports heart health, and may aid in reducing inflammation.
• Cumin and Sumac: Both spices add depth to the dish while providing antioxidant properties, helping to boost metabolism and support digestion.

This salad brings together a unique balance of flavors and textures, with each bite offering something new. The warm nuttiness of the quinoa and walnuts pairs perfectly with the sweet dates, while the chickpeas add heartiness to the dish. The cumin, sumac, and cinnamon elevate the entire salad, and the pomegranate molasses ties it all together with a tangy sweetness that will make your taste buds dance. It’s a perfect addition to your meal repertoire – light yet satisfying, nourishing yet full of flavor. Enjoy