Springtime Gut-Friendly Quinoa & Asparagus Salad 

As the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to refresh your meals with light, nourishing, and gut-friendly ingredients. This Springtime Quinoa & Asparagus Salad is packed with fiber-rich quinoa, crisp asparagus, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side or a light main dish, this salad is the perfect way to celebrate seasonal flavors while supporting overall wellness.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ cup radishes, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
• ¼ cup fermented feta, crumbled (look for a probiotic-rich version!)
• ¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds (for extra crunch)

Dressing:

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp raw honey (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

• Cook the quinoa: In a medium pot, bring the quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed. Let it cool.
• Prepare the asparagus: While the quinoa is cooking, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the asparagus and blanch for 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to keep it bright green and crisp.
• Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
• Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine quinoa, asparagus, radishes, parsley, dill, and pumpkin seeds. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
• Top with feta: Sprinkle the crumbled fermented feta on top and give it a final toss.
• Serve & enjoy: This salad can be served immediately or stored in the fridge for up to three days—flavors deepen over time!

This salad is the perfect spring dish—bright, nourishing, and full of seasonal ingredients. Serve it as a light lunch, pair it with grilled fish or chicken, or meal prep it for easy weekday meals. Enjoy!