Mixing up a grain-based salad is a quick, easy and nutritious way to get dinner on the table. They are also a great for clearing out the fridge as you can mix and match whatever fresh vegetables need using, making the most of what is in season.

You only need basic equipment – a chopping board, knife, large bowl, saucepan and sieve. Grains like quinoa, buckwheat and orzo pasta just take 10-15 minutes to cook, and in the meantime you can assemble all your other ingredients.

How to assemble a grain-based salad

The basic formula is grains + dressing + tinned pulses + veggies. You can also throw in some optional nuts or seeds for texture, dried fruit for sweetness, or pickles for acidity. Following this formula gives plenty of flexibility to mix and match flavours, whilst ensuring you will get a balanced plate with carbs, protein, fibre and healthy fats.

As a general guide, here are some steps to follow.

• Rinse and drain your grains, add to a saucepan with water and a pinch of bouillon powder. 
• Bring to a boil, then reduce to  a simmer and cook until the grains are tender.
• Add dressing ingredients to a large salad bowl, and give a quick whisk.
• Drain and rinse a tin of pulses. Add to the bowl with the dressing.
• Grate or chop fresh vegetables and fruit, add to the same large bowl.
• Add optional nuts, seeds or dried fruit.
• When the grains are fully cooked, drain and rinse. Add to the salad bowl.
• Finally, give everything a good toss to make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed, and everything has taken on the flavour of the dressing.