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Cucumber and Quinoa Salad with Espresso Caramel Cake

moka coffee pot
A guilt-free quinoa and cucumber salad paired with a dangerously decadent espresso caramel cake. Here’s to pretending we care about balance.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cucumber and Quinoa Salad:
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cucumbers thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Espresso Caramel Cake:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup brewed espresso
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions
 

  • For the Cucumber and Quinoa Salad:
  • Cook quinoa according to package directions, then let it cool.
  • Slice cucumbers and finely chop the onion and parsley.
  • In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, cucumbers, onion, and parsley.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, tossing gently.
  • Season with salt and pepper. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
  • For the Espresso Caramel Cake:
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a saucepan, melt butter, then add sugar and eggs, whisking to combine.
  • Stir in brewed espresso and vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
  • Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth.
  • Pour the batter into a greased baking tray.
  • Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool, then drizzle with caramel sauce.

Notes

Nutritional Values (Per Serving)

Calories: 420
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 8g

Vitamins and Minerals (Per Serving)

  • Vitamin A: 5%
  • Vitamin C: 12%
  • Calcium: 4%
  • Iron: 10%
  • Potassium: 8%

Additional Notes/Tips

  • You can add feta cheese to the salad for extra creaminess if you feel fancy.
  • If you want to go all in, top the cake with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  • Chill the salad for an hour before serving for a refreshing touch.