Cranberry Lentil and Quinoa Salad

Ingredients and Weight:

• Quinoa: 2 cups (360 grams)
• Red Lentils: 1 cup (190 grams)
• Fresh Cranberries: ½ cup (80 grams)
• Baby spinach leaves: 4 cups (80 grams)
• Red Onion: 1 medium, diced
• Feta cheese: ½ cup (125 grams)
• Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tablespoons
• Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Fresh basil or oregano: for garnish (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Prepare quinoa by rinsing in water to remove any residue, then cooking according to package instructions until tender and fluffy.
2. In a separate pot, cook the red lentils with water until tender. Drain and set aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and lentils, cranberries, spinach, and diced red onion.
4. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a dressing. Pour over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil or oregano. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approx. 450 per serving (based on provided ingredients)
• Carbohydrates: Quinoa and lentils provide complex carbs; cranberries add natural sugar.
• Protein: Feta cheese is a source of protein.
• Fat: From olive oil and feta cheese.
• Fiber: Quinoa and lentils are good sources of fiber.

Dish Characteristics:

• Creative fusion of flavors between traditional American taste and healthier international ingredients.
• The combination of quinoa, lentils, and cranberries provides a unique and refreshing taste experience.
• The dish is both healthy and hearty, making it a great choice for any meal.

User Comments:

1. "Love the combination of flavors in this salad! The cranberries add a nice tangy touch."
2. "This is a great dish for a vegetarian meal. The quinoa and lentils provide a good amount of protein."
3. "I've never thought to combine quinoa and lentils in a salad before. This dish has definitely broadened my culinary horizons."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• When cooking quinoa, be sure to rinse it before cooking to remove any residue or bitterness.
• Adjust the dressing according to your preference for acidity or oiliness.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can puree some of the cooked quinoa and lentils in a blender before mixing with the other ingredients.