The title to this recipe is actually a little misleading; I used kaniwa in this salad instead of quinoa. Kaniwa is a close relative of quinoa with the same protein packed health benefits, only it has a prettier color and has a less bitter taste. It’s a winning change, though. Kaniwa is basically the same as quinoa, only better, and the rich color adds an improved visual element to the dish.
I stumbled across this close relative of quinoa by accident, during a rushed trip to the grocery store. Once I got home I realized I had this new mystery grain instead of traditional quinoa, and immediately the wheels began turning as to what I could make with this. I have no doubt you could substitute regular quinoa and it would work beautifully in this recipe (Or red quinoa to give it some color). The best part of this recipe is how simple it is; it’s just four quick steps to making this beautiful and intriguing side dish.
1. Cook quinoa
2. Mix together dressing ingredients
3. Dice pears and chop pecans
4. Toss all ingredients together and serve.
Simple! For that matter it makes a super healthy main dish with all the protein packed in with the pecans, cheese and quinoa (or kaniwa if you’re feeling adventurous)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked quinoa, or kaniwa
- 1/2 cup diced pears
- 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- 1/4 cup pecan pieces
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 3 T red wine vinegar
- 3 T balsamic vinegar
- 3 T Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/8 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions and cool completely
- Meanwhile, combine all dressing ingredients and mix together well.
- To assemble the salad. Toss together the quinoa, pears, Gorgonzola, pecans and dressing to taste. Serve immediately.
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Paula says
oh yum, I LOVE gorgonzola!
Beth @ The First Year says
I love everything about this!! Great pictures too Mallory!
DessertForTwo says
Lovely! I don’t think I can turn down pears + bleu cheese any time!
Melanie @ Carmel Moments says
Wow! What a healthy delicious combo. Pinned.
Have a beautiful Wednesday!
Jessica @ A Kitchen Addiction says
What a gorgeous salad! Love the flavors!
Sandi Gaertner (@sandigtweets) says
Beautiful combination of flavors. I am looking forward to trying this recipe.
Allie | Baking a Moment says
Wow this is just gorgeous! Love the flavors too. Thanks for introducing me to kaniwa; I’ll have to look for it!
Amanda says
I love everything about this!
Maria says
Your salad looks great! I’ve made so many sweet and savory quinoa salads, they are so hearty and filling!!! Love the pear and gorgonzola idea!!! YUM!!!
Mallory says
Thanks, Maria! It’s a new favorite of mine too!