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Arugula Quinoa Salad With Chicken and Beets

Arugula Quinoa Salad With Chicken and Beets

A vibrant and nutritious salad combining arugula, quinoa, chicken, and roasted beets, topped with goat cheese and walnuts, perfect for a quick meal or meal prep.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 425

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups fresh arugula
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced
  • 2 medium roasted beets, cubed
  • 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 1/3 cup toasted walnuts
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook the quinoa according to package directions. Typically, combine 1 cup dry quinoa with 2 cups water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool completely.
  2. While quinoa cools, roast your beets if using fresh ones. Wrap them in foil, roast at 400°F for 45-60 minutes until tender, then let cool and peel. Cut into bite-sized cubes.
  3. Prepare your chicken by grilling, baking, or using rotisserie chicken. Slice into strips or cubes. Season with salt and pepper if needed.
  4. Make the dressing by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  5. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Chop roughly once cooled.
  6. Assemble your salad by placing arugula in a large bowl. Add cooled quinoa, chicken, beets, and walnuts. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.
  7. Top with crumbled goat cheese just before serving. Serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

Cool quinoa completely before assembling to prevent wilting. Dress salad just before serving. Store components separately for meal prep.