Cherry Limeade Vinaigrette on Cherry Quinoa Salad

Fresh cherries should definately be enjoyed when they come into season. The trouble of de-pitting them is worth it for their unique flavor and crunch. This healthy salad is great warm or cold and can be a light meal or a tasty side.

cherry quinoa salad side view

Vinagrette Ingredients:
1/4 cup EVOO
1/4 cup cherry limeade balsamic vinegar
1 Tablespoon champagne vinegar
1 Tablespoon Dijan style mustard

Salad Ingredients:
1 cup raw quinoa cooked per instructions
2 cups chopped dark greens (chard, black kale, baby spinach, arugula or a mix)
1/4 cup finely diced red onion
1 cup fresh pitted cherries cut in halves or quarters.
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup grated white cheddar cheese

Preparation
Whisk together the vinagrette ingredients until an emulsion forms. You will not use all of it on the salad so store the remainder in a masion jar to add in or for future use. If it separates, just shake the jar!
Place salad ingredients in a bowl, add 1/4 cup of the dressing and toss. This will make a lightly dressed salad. You can offer the remainder of the dressing on the side for folks who like a heavier dressed salad or just add more to suit your own taste!

cherry quinoa salad top view

The best part is the cherry in every bite! Oh and the dressing. Yum.