Are you in search of a salad that embodies freshness and flavor while remaining simple to prepare? Look no further than this delightful Quinoa Apple Salad! This fruity, vibrant dish combines the nutty texture of quinoa with the sweetness of crisp apples, dried cranberries, and crunchy candied walnuts, all harmonized by a zesty maple Dijon vinaigrette. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at dinner or packing it for a hearty lunch, this salad promises to impress your taste buds and nourish your body.
What makes this Quinoa Apple Salad truly special is not just its delicious taste but also its versatility and health benefits. Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins, this colorful meal is gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly. It’s an excellent option for meal prepping, providing convenience for busy weekdays. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find, ensuring you can whip it up whenever the craving strikes.
Why You’ll Love This Quinoa Apple Salad
- Bright and refreshing flavors that make every bite exciting.
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Nutrient-rich components that support a healthy lifestyle.
- Perfect for lunch, dinner, or potluck gatherings.
- Gluten-free and vegetarian, catering to various dietary preferences.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the deliciousness of your Quinoa Apple Salad, it’s essential to set up your kitchen for success. Start by gathering all your ingredients: tricolor quinoa, fresh produce, dried cranberries, and candied walnuts. Having everything within reach will streamline the cooking process. For the best taste, select fresh apples that are firm and sweet. The combination of flavors in this salad shines best when each ingredient is at its peak.
You will also need a medium saucepan for cooking the quinoa and a small bowl for whisking the vinaigrette. A large mixing bowl is ideal for combining all the ingredients. Don’t forget a fork to fluff your quinoa! Once everything is prepped and your workstation is organized, you are ready to start creating this flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
- ¾ cup tricolor quinoa, rinsed
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 1 gala apple, diced into ¼-inch cubes
- ¼ cup celery, diced into ¼-inch cubes
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup candied walnuts
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Begin by boiling the vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the rinsed quinoa and stir gently. Cover the saucepan with a lid, then remove it from heat. Let the quinoa sit undisturbed for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the quinoa to absorb the broth and become fluffy. After 15 minutes, use a fork to fluff the quinoa and transfer it into a large bowl for mixing.
Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette
While the quinoa is cooking, you can prepare the vinaigrette that will tie the salad together. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground allspice, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure the mixture is well combined; this dressing will add a delightful tang and sweetness to your salad.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
With the quinoa cooked and the vinaigrette prepared, it’s time to merge all the components. Add the diced gala apple, chopped celery, fresh parsley, and candied walnuts into the fluffed quinoa. Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until the quinoa is coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed. This ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor!
Step 4: Serve or Chill
You can serve the Quinoa Apple Salad immediately for a fresh experience. However, if you prefer a deeper infusion of flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before serving. Chilling enhances the taste, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully. This dish can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it convenient for any meal setting.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost.
- Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
- Spices: Add a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick or substitute honey for an alternative sweetness.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly to remove any bitterness.
- If you don’t have vegetable broth, water can be used as a substitute.
- Feel free to customize your salad by adding or omitting ingredients based on your personal preferences.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the salad with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
- Serve as a colorful side dish during gatherings or family meals.
Tips
- For added flair, try different types of apples for varying sweetness and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- To enhance the nutty flavor of quinoa, toast it in the saucepan before boiling.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
- Protein: 5 grams
- Sodium: 150 mg
FAQs
What can I substitute for the quinoa?
You can replace quinoa with farro, barley, or brown rice for different textures and flavors.
How long does Quinoa Apple Salad last?
When stored in an airtight container, the salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Can I make this salad vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure any optional ingredients, like dressings, are vegan as well.
Can I add cheese to this salad?
Yes! Crumbled feta or goat cheese can be delightful additions for extra creaminess.
Conclusion
The Quinoa Apple Salad combines hearty ingredients into a light, nutritious dish that is sure to please anyone who tries it. It’s effortless to make, packed with essential nutrients, and bursting with delightful flavors. Whether for a light lunch or as a side for your dinner party, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Be sure to try your variations and let your creativity shine through with different ingredients. If you enjoyed this salad, share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you made it your own!
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Quinoa Apple Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant salad combining quinoa, apples, and a zesty vinaigrette.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
- ¾ cup tricolor quinoa, rinsed
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 1 gala apple, diced into ¼-inch cubes
- ¼ cup celery, diced into ¼-inch cubes
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup candied walnuts
Instructions
- Begin by boiling the vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the rinsed quinoa and stir gently. Cover the saucepan with a lid, then remove it from heat. Let the quinoa sit undisturbed for about 15 minutes.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground allspice, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Add the diced gala apple, chopped celery, fresh parsley, and candied walnuts into the fluffed quinoa. Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until evenly distributed.
- You can serve the salad immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving for deeper flavor.
Notes
Customize your salad by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or different vegetables as desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 5 g