How long does it take to make Amaranth Microgreen and Quinoa Salad?
This recipe takes approximately 20 min total.
20 min
· Serves 2
· Updated February 21, 2026
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Amaranth microgreens are best added fresh as a finishing ingredient. This vibrant salad combines nutty quinoa with fresh amaranth microgreens for a nutritious boost, perfect for lunch or dinner.
This recipe takes approximately 20 min total.
Amaranth microgreens work best as a fresh finishing ingredient, adding color, texture, and a just-cut flavor that stands out right before serving.
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup amaranth microgreens
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to combine.
Fold in the amaranth microgreens just before serving for maximum freshness.
Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra microgreens on top.
Amaranth microgreens are distinguished by their vibrant magenta and gold pigments, which come from betalain compounds. They are chosen by chefs primarily for visual impact and mild, earthy flavor. Amaranth grain has a stronger evidence base than amaranth microgreens specifically.
• Amaranth species have been studied for betalain pigment content, the same class of pigments found in beets and some other plants.
moderate evidence• Pigment intensity and flavor in amaranth microgreens vary significantly by variety and light exposure during growing.
strong evidence1. Assessment of Vitamin and Carotenoid Concentrations of Emerging Food Products: Edible Microgreens — Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2012
2. Microgreens: Production, Shelf Life, and Bioactive Components — Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 2017