Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a large pot over high heat. The goal is to have a rolling boil when you add the quinoa.
Once the water is boiling, carefully stir in 1 cup of quinoa, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook until all the moisture is absorbed, about 15 minutes. You'll know it’s done when the quinoa looks fluffy and has a little tail.
After cooking, transfer the fluffy quinoa to a large mixing bowl and allow it to cool for a few minutes. The cooling process is crucial as it prevents the salad from wilting when you mix in the other ingredients.
While the quinoa cools, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for toasting the pistachios.
Spread the pistachios evenly on the baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning; they should be lightly golden brown and fragrant.
Once the quinoa has cooled, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 3/4 cup of chopped dried cherries, 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, and 6 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil. Give it a gentle mix until everything is well incorporated.
Next, chop the toasted pistachios roughly and fold them into the salad. Their crunch will provide a delightful contrast to the soft ingredients.
Now, it’s time to prepare the dressing. In a medium, microwave-safe bowl, combine 1/2 cup of plain kefir and 4 teaspoons of honey. Microwave the mixture for about 30 seconds until the honey melts and combines smoothly with the kefir.
Stir in 4 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar into the dressing mixture. This will create a tangy and creamy dressing that pulls the salad together beautifully.
Finally, pour the dressing over the salad mixture, and give everything a good toss to ensure every ingredient is coated. Take a moment to savor the colors and aromas; they indicate the deliciousness that lies ahead!
Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for a refreshing side dish later. Enjoy your Healthy Crunchy Quinoa Salad!
