How long does it take to make Amaranth Microgreen Quinoa Salad Delight?
This recipe takes approximately 25 min total.
25 min
· Serves 2
· Updated March 28, 2026
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Amaranth microgreens are best added fresh as a finishing ingredient. This vibrant quinoa salad features amaranth microgreens for a nutrient-rich boost, beautifully complemented by fresh vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.
This recipe takes approximately 25 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 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
Gently fold in the amaranth microgreens just before serving to keep them fresh.
Serve chilled or at room temperature as a light meal or side dish.
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