Ingredients
Salad: 1 teaspoon olive oil 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion 1 cup uncooked quinoa 2 cups water 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1 cup fresh orange sections (about 1 large orange) 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted 2 tablespoons minced red onion 5 dates, pitted and chopped 1/2 pound (2-inch) slices asparagus, steamed and chilled 1/2 jalapeño pepper, diced Dressing: 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon extravirgin olive oil 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 garlic clove, minced 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint Mint sprigs (optional)
How to Make It
Step 1
To prepare salad, heat 1 teaspoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add white onion to pan; sauté 2 minutes. Add quinoa to pan; sauté 5 minutes. Add 2 cups water and 1/2 teaspoon salt to pan; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat; let stand 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Transfer quinoa mixture to a large bowl. Add orange and next 5 ingredients (through jalapeño); toss gently to combine.
Step 2
To prepare dressing, combine juice and next 4 ingredients (through garlic) in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk. Pour dressing over salad; toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with chopped mint. Garnish with mint sprigs, if desired. Serve at room temperature.
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