What to Eat with Costco Quinoa Salad [5 Options to Enjoy]
Balanced meals have never been easier to make, especially with so many premade versions. So, to save yourself from future kitchen disasters, let me introduce you to the Costco quinoa salad and the perfect partners to eat it with. Simple, fulfilling combinations make for my favorite meals, and they can make your day, too! Today I will show you some great options to turn a simple dish into a tasty meal!
Whether it’s their selection of baked goods or their discounted prices on bulk items, there is something for everyone at this popular warehouse store. One of my favorite finds is their premade quinoa salad, filled with various delicious flavors and textures. And, the best thing is: the perfect partners for Costco quinoa salad are endless. Whether you want something savory, sweet, spicy, or crunchy, there’s something out there for you.
Grilled Proteins
If you plan on making the quinoa salad your main dish, why not add some protein to turn it into a complete meal? Grilling up your favorite meat or fish will take your quinoa salad to the next level. The quinoa can act as a base, while the grilled protein adds a delicious layer of flavor and texture.
Here are a few great options for adding to your Costco quinoa salad:
- Grilled steak – such as ribeye, sirloin, or hanger steak
- Grilled chicken – such as boneless skinless chicken breast
- Grilled salmon – for that zesty citrus flavor
- Grilled shrimp – for a unique combination of sweet and savory
These proteins work great in the salad, either warm or cold, so it’s easy to make ahead of time and serve them both together. Adding grilled proteins is an easy way to ensure you get enough essential nutrients in your diet!
Crunchy Toppings
You have plenty of options if you want to add some crunch to your Costco quinoa salad. Here are a few of my favorites:
Seeds and nuts are a classic choice for topping salads, and they’re even better when toasted. Toast some pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, cashews, or almonds in the oven (or on the stovetop!) for 3–5 minutes until lightly browned. Sprinkle them on top of your salad for a few extra crunchy bites.
Did you know that chips aren’t just for dipping? Crumble corn or whole grain tortilla chips over your quinoa salad for a salty kick. If you don’t have chips handy, I love using croutons as great crunchy alternatives.
Roasted chickpeas are one of my absolute favorite toppings for salads. Roast chickpeas in the oven with olive oil, salt, and cumin until crispy – about 20–30 minutes at 400°F (200°C) — and then sprinkle them over your bowl of quinoa goodness! Delicious!
Hummus and Pita Bread
One of my favorite pairings to go with Costco quinoa salad are hummus and pita chips – an easy snack you can buy at Costco in bulk. Hummus can be made with various ingredients, and you don’t need to add any tahini.
For example, you can make roasted red pepper hummus, which adds a sweet smokiness to the dish that pairs perfectly with the tangy Costco quinoa salad. Plus, it’s a great guilt-free snack with more fiber from the pita chips and antioxidants from the hummus ingredients! [1]
To prepare roasted red pepper hummus, you will need a can of chickpeas, some tahini paste, one clove of garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, a bit of cumin, salt, and pepper to taste, and some roasted red peppers.
Add all ingredients (except for the roasted red peppers) into a food processor or blender, blend until smooth, then fold in the roasted red peppers. Serve your hummus with some freshly-cut veggies or pita bread, and you’ve got the perfect complement to Costco quinoa salad!
Spicy Dips and Sauces
I love adding a bit of spice to my quinoa salad, so the next perfect partner I’ve found is a spicy dip or sauce. Whether you prefer something like sriracha or a classic chili sauce, the tangy deliciousness of an excellent spicy dip or sauce can really take your Costco quinoa salad to the next level.
If you’re in the mood for something smoky and creamy, why not add some roasted garlic hummus? Or, if you’re looking for something more zingy, how about mixing some mango chutney with Greek yogurt to make an excellent dip?
You’ll get a great combination of fresh flavors and textures every time by choosing different types of dips and sauces to mix into your quinoa salad. The contrast between the creamy dip and crunchy quinoa will leave your tastebuds tingling!
Greens and Feta Cheese
The last perfect partner I’d suggest going with the Costco quinoa salad is a simple combination of greens and feta cheese. This is one of my all-time favorite combinations, and it’s incredibly delicious when you pair it with the quinoa salad.
You can make a base of butter and spinach leaves, then layer on some raw red onions, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of sea salt and pepper. The feta cheese is creamy and contrasts nicely with the tartness of the red onions. It’s a great way to add some extra flavor to the quinoa dish, plus you’re also getting an extra dose of greens.
Garnish this fantastic combination with fresh herbs, such as chopped basil or mint. Heating up some garlic-infused olive oil can also give your greens an extra boost in flavor if desired. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn your Costco salad into a delicious, wholesome meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
