Saltbush & Pepperberry Quinoa Salad: A Native Australian Food Recipe
The Saltbush & Pepperberry Quinoa Salad brings together the earthy nuttiness of quinoa with the distinctive flavours of two iconic native herbs — Saltbush and Tasmanian Pepperberry. Saltbush adds a light, savoury saltiness, while Pepperberry contributes gentle heat and fruitiness. Together, they create a balanced and vibrant salad that celebrates Australian native ingredients.
Old Man Saltbush is an incredibly hardy plant and a versatile culinary herb. If you’re growing your own, be sure to explore an Old Man Saltbush Growing Guide for tips.
Grab your Australian Native Salt & pepper pack by clicking the link here: Terrablendz Native Salt & Pepper
Why This Salad Works
This dish is simple, quick, and suitable for all cooking levels. Quinoa cooks fast, Terrablendz Dried Saltbush and Pepperberry are effortless to use, and fresh vegetables complete a wholesome, flavourful bowl. It’s ideal for busy days, healthy lunches, or a light dinner — and it adapts to almost any protein pairing.
Perfect Pairings
The versatility of this salad makes it easy to match with a range of mains:
Seafood
Lemon Myrtle–infused prawns
Aniseed Myrtle–seasoned salmon
The citrus lift complements the native herbs beautifully.
Vegetables
Roasted pumpkin, zucchini, sweet potato, or capsicum
These deepen the earthy flavours of quinoa.
Chicken
Grilled Lemon Myrtle chicken for an aromatic, refreshing contrast.
Whether it’s a casual lunch or a more refined dinner, this salad fits effortlessly into any setting.
Saltbush & Pepperberry Quinoa Salad
The Goods:
1/2 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 tbsp Terrablendz Dried Saltbush (Atriplex Nummularia)
1/2 tbsp Terrablendz Dried Tasmanian Pepperberry (Tasmannia Lanceolata)
1/2 cucumber, diced
1/2 tomato, diced
2 tbsp chopped parsley (plus extra for garnish, optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon
The Process:
Combine Ingredients
In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, Saltbush, Pepperberry, cucumber, tomato, and parsley.
Make the Dressing
Whisk olive oil and lemon juice together.
Toss & Rest
Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss to combine. Let sit for 2 minutes to allow flavours to meld.
Serve
Serve immediately or pair with your favourite protein.
Saltbush & Pepperberry Quinoa Salad for Meal Prep
This salad is excellent for meal prepping thanks to its durability and flavour evolution over time. Quinoa holds its texture well in the fridge, and the dried form of Saltbush and Pepperberry blends deeper into the salad as it rests.
Storage Benefits
Lasts 3–4 days in the fridge
Flavours continue to develop, becoming more cohesive and aromatic
Saves time for busy weeks
When you’re ready to eat, simply add fresh cucumber, tomato, and parsley — it takes under 5 minutes.
Evolving Flavour Over Time
As the salad sits, quinoa absorbs the subtle saltiness of Saltbush and the mild spice of Pepperberry. This creates a richer, more integrated flavour profile each day. What starts as a simple side becomes a satisfying, uniquely Australian main course as the flavours deepen.
A Practical, Flavourful Native Salad
The Saltbush & Pepperberry Quinoa Salad is a versatile, nutrient-rich dish that suits any schedule. Easy to prepare, packed with native herbs, and adaptable to countless pairings — it’s a standout recipe for anyone wanting to incorporate more Australian flavours into everyday cooking.
Grab your Australian Native Salt & pepper pack by clicking the link here: Terrablendz Native Salt & Pepper
