Macro Friendly Grain Salad

Looking for a delicious and healthy salad that’s packed with flavor and nutrients? Look no further than this Macro Friendly Grain Salad! This vibrant dish combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa and brown rice with a mix of savory proteins, fresh vegetables, and a light dressing to create a perfectly balanced meal. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving it at a gathering, this salad is sure to please a crowd while keeping your macros in check.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Macro Friendly Grain Salad is not just nutritious; it’s also a feast for the eyes and the palate. The colorful array of ingredients makes it visually appealing, while the combination of textures—from the crunch of fresh veggies to the creaminess of mozzarella and feta—ensures that every bite is satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your dietary preferences and what you have on hand. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just someone who loves great food, this salad is a hit!

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this delicious Macro Friendly Grain Salad, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 packages Seeds of Change Quinoa and Brown Rice with Garlic (precooked from Costco)
• 2 light mozzarella cheese sticks (I used Frigo)
• 12 slices light salami cut into bite-sized pieces (I used Gallo)
• 3 oz cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces (I used Fresh Additions)
• 1/4 cup fat-free feta cheese
• 1 whole Roma tomato diced
• 1 whole green bell pepper diced
• 2 scallions chopped
• 1/2 cup light Olive Garden Salad Dressing

Equipment & Tools

To whip up this Macro Friendly Grain Salad, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
• Cutting board and knife: To chop your veggies and proteins.
• Measuring cups: To ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Serving spoon: For tossing and serving your salad.

Macro Friendly Grain Salad — Do This Next

Follow these simple steps to create your Macro Friendly Grain Salad:

Step 1: Prepare the Grains

Start by heating the Seeds of Change Quinoa and Brown Rice with Garlic according to the package instructions. This usually takes just a few minutes in the microwave or on the stovetop. Once heated, let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Chop Your Ingredients

While the grains are cooling, dice the Roma tomato and green bell pepper. Chop the scallions and cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa and brown rice, diced tomato, diced green bell pepper, chopped scallions, light salami pieces, cooked chicken breast, mozzarella, and feta cheese.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the light Olive Garden Salad Dressing over the salad mixture. Start with half of the dressing and add more if desired, mixing well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once everything is combined, your Macro Friendly Grain Salad is ready to be served! You can enjoy it immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit to enhance the flavors.

Make It Fit Your Plan

This Macro Friendly Grain Salad is highly customizable. Here are some tips to make it fit your dietary plan:

• For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken and salami with additional beans or chickpeas.
• Use a different dressing that aligns with your dietary goals, such as a homemade vinaigrette.
• Swap out the feta for another cheese or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Add more veggies like cucumbers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrients without significantly increasing calories.

Problems & Prevention

While this salad is generally straightforward, here are some tips to ensure everything goes smoothly:

• Ingredient Freshness: Make sure all your vegetables are fresh and not wilted for the best taste.
• Proper Storage: If you don’t eat the whole salad at once, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
• Mixing: Be gentle when mixing to avoid crushing the grains and vegetables.
• Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning after mixing. You might find it needs a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Macro Friendly Grain Salad is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

You can make this salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from getting soggy. It will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

• Store in an airtight container: This will keep your salad fresh longer.
• Keep dressing separate: This helps maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables.
• Refrigerate: Always store your salad in the fridge to keep ingredients fresh.

Ask the Chef

Can I use different grains in this salad?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses quinoa and brown rice, you can substitute it with any whole grains you prefer, such as farro, barley, or even couscous.

How can I make this salad spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a spicy dressing to kick things up a notch!

Can I use other proteins in this salad?

Yes! Feel free to swap the chicken and salami for other proteins like turkey, tofu, or shrimp, depending on your taste preferences.

Is this salad suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers for quick grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

Similar Recipes

If you love this Macro Friendly Grain Salad, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:

• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
• Healthy Chickpea Salad
• Easy Vegan Buddha Bowl
• Creamy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

See You at the Table

This Macro Friendly Grain Salad is a delightful option that marries simplicity and flavor, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. With its wholesome ingredients and satisfying taste, you and your loved ones will be reaching for seconds!

So, gather your ingredients, get your mixing bowl ready, and enjoy a tasty, nutritious meal that fits perfectly into your macro-friendly lifestyle. Happy eating!