Quinoa Apple Salad

This Quinoa Apple Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for lunch or as a side dish. The combination of crunchy apples, sweet dried cranberries, and nutty walnuts creates a refreshing salad that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy this salad at picnics, potlucks, or as a light meal any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with quinoa, apples, and nuts, this salad is rich in nutrients.
• Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip this up in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a side or main dish, it’s easy to adapt with your favorite ingredients.
• Great for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for grab-and-go lunches.
• Flavorful Vinaigrette: The maple dijon dressing adds a sweet and tangy kick that complements the salad beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Quinoa Apple Salad, you’ll need some essential tools. These will ensure you create the dish effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium-sized saucepan
• Large salad bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium-sized saucepan: Ideal for cooking quinoa evenly without overflow.
• Large salad bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Whisk: Helps combine the vinaigrette ingredients smoothly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

This delicious, healthy, and fruity Apple Quinoa Salad recipe makes a great lunch or side salad alongside your favorite main dish.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
– 3/4 cup tricolor quinoa, (rinsed)
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1 gala apple, (diced into 1/4 inch cubes)
– 1/4 cup celery, (diced into 1/4 inch cubes)
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, (chopped)
– 1/4 cup candied walnuts
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 garlic clove, (minced)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Quinoa Apple Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

1. Bring the vegetable broth and rinsed quinoa to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan.
2. Add the dried cranberries, cover the saucepan, and remove it from heat.
3. Let it stand for 15 minutes to allow the quinoa to absorb the broth.
4. Fluff with a fork and transfer to a large salad bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Vinaigrette

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
2. extra virgin olive oil
3. maple syrup
4. dijon mustard
5. apple cider vinegar
6. minced garlic
7. ground allspice
8. kosher salt
9. black pepper

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

1. Pour the vinaigrette over the cooked quinoa mixture in the large bowl.
2. Gently fold in the diced gala apple, diced celery, chopped parsley, and toasted candied walnuts.
3. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving for an even fresher taste.

Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Quinoa Apple Salad!

How to Serve Quinoa Apple Salad

Quinoa Apple Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a delightful side, this salad pairs well with numerous dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

As a Standalone Lunch

• Enjoy the salad on its own for a quick, healthy lunch option. The combination of quinoa, apple, and cranberries provides a satisfying mix of flavors and textures.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken breast for added protein. The juicy chicken complements the sweetness of the apples perfectly.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Serve it next to roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal. The earthy flavors of the veggies enhance the fruity notes of the salad.

As a Picnic Item

• This salad is an excellent choice for picnics. It can be made ahead of time and served cold, making it convenient for outdoor dining.

Topped on Toast

• For a unique twist, serve the Quinoa Apple Salad on toasted bread. This creates a crunchy base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.

How to Perfect Quinoa Apple Salad

To make your Quinoa Apple Salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips. These suggestions will enhance flavor and ensure perfect texture every time you prepare this dish.

• Rinse the quinoa: Rinsing quinoa before cooking removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh apples and herbs for maximum flavor. Fresh parsley adds brightness to your salad.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preference. You can reduce it if you prefer a less sweet salad.
• Let it chill: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavors as they meld together.
• Experiment with nuts: If you’re not a fan of candied walnuts, try using almonds or pecans instead for different textures and tastes.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers to increase crunchiness and nutrients in your salad.

Best Side Dishes for Quinoa Apple Salad

Quinoa Apple Salad makes an excellent complement to many dishes. Below are some fantastic side dishes that pair perfectly with this flavorful salad.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness balances out the tartness of apples in the salad while adding a hearty element.

2. Lemon Garlic Green Beans
   These vibrant green beans bring freshness and zest that enhance the overall meal.

3. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
   A protein-packed option featuring chickpeas, cucumbers, and tomatoes that adds variety to your plate.

4. Crispy Air Fryer Tofu
   This crispy tofu offers an additional protein source while providing a delightful crunch that complements the salad’s texture.

5. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
   Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add smokiness and are easy to prepare alongside any main dish.

6. Herbed Couscous
   Light and fluffy couscous infused with herbs pairs beautifully with the flavors in Quinoa Apple Salad, creating a balanced meal option.

7. Baked Falafel Balls
   These flavorful bites provide plant-based protein and spices that make them an exciting addition alongside your salad.

8. Zucchini Noodles
   Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative that pairs well with various dressings and toppings from your main dish choices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Quinoa Apple Salad can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking quinoa: Quinoa should be fluffy, not mushy. Follow the cooking time and instructions closely.
• Skipping the rinsing step: Rinsing quinoa removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can taste bitter. Always rinse before cooking.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your salad after mixing and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or acid can elevate the dish significantly.
• Using stale ingredients: Ensure your nuts, spices, and dried fruits are fresh. Stale ingredients can negatively affect the flavor of your salad.
• Ignoring texture balance: Combining various textures makes your salad more interesting. Don’t forget to include crunchy elements like nuts or celery.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days.
• Ensure it has cooled down completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Quinoa Apple Salad

• Freeze for up to 2 months if you want to make a large batch.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Quinoa Apple Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Quinoa Apple Salad that may help you:

What is Quinoa Apple Salad?

Quinoa Apple Salad is a refreshing dish made with tricolor quinoa, apples, and cranberries tossed in a flavorful vinaigrette. It’s nutritious and easy to prepare.

How do I make my Quinoa Apple Salad more filling?

To add more protein, consider including chickpeas or grilled chicken in your salad. These additions will provide extra sustenance.

Can I customize the ingredients in Quinoa Apple Salad?

Absolutely! You can swap out apples for pears or add other fruits like grapes or oranges. Experiment with different nuts or herbs based on your preferences!

How long does Quinoa Apple Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad can last between 3–5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Is Quinoa Apple Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salad holds up well when prepared in advance. Just store it properly and enjoy it throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

This Quinoa Apple Salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions—from lunchboxes to dinner sides. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to enjoy its delightful flavors!

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Quinoa Apple Salad

• Author: sofia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Quinoa Apple Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa with crunchy apples, sweet dried cranberries, and nutty walnuts. This delightful salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it ideal as a stand-alone lunch or a side dish for any meal. With its colorful presentation and refreshing taste, it’s also an excellent choice for picnics and potlucks. Plus, the easy-to-make maple dijon vinaigrette adds a zesty kick that enhances every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal prep option or a light accompaniment to your favorite main dish, this Quinoa Apple Salad is sure to please!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• 3/4 cup tricolor quinoa (rinsed)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1 gala apple (diced)
• 1/4 cup celery (diced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup candied walnuts
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, bring vegetable broth and rinsed quinoa to a boil. Add dried cranberries, cover, and remove from heat. Let sit for 15 minutes to absorb the liquid. Fluff with a fork and transfer to a large bowl.
2. Whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, allspice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create the vinaigrette.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the quinoa mixture in the large bowl. Gently fold in diced apple, celery, parsley, and candied walnuts. Serve immediately or chill before serving for enhanced flavor.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - Rinse quinoa before cooking to eliminate bitterness. - Customize by adding other fruits like pears or nuts such as almonds or pecans. - Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.