Jun 08 2026
RestaurantsVista 18 Restaurant + LoungeSpinach + Crispy Quinoa Salad Recipe

Spinach + Crispy Quinoa Salad Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

pickled butternut squash, fried halloumi, champagne dressing

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Ingredients

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Salad Base

Pickled Butternut Squash

Fried Halloumi

Champagne Dressing

Method

Pickling the Butternut Squash

  1. 1

    Prepare the Pickling Liquid

    In a saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.

  2. 2

    Pickle the Squash

    Add the diced butternut squash to the boiling liquid. Remove from heat and let it cool. Once cooled, transfer to a jar and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Preparing the Salad

  1. 3

    Cook the Quinoa

    If not already cooked, rinse quinoa under cold water, then combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until all water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.

  2. 4

    Fry the Halloumi

    In a non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add halloumi slices and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.

  3. 5

    Make the Dressing

    In a small bowl, whisk together champagne vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

  4. 6

    Assemble the Salad

    In a large bowl, combine fresh spinach, cooked quinoa, and pickled butternut squash. Drizzle with champagne dressing and toss gently. Top with fried halloumi slices before serving.

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