Quinoa Apple Salad: A Fruity, Fresh & Flavor-Packed Favorite Recipe

Introduction

This Quinoa Apple Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the sweetness of apples and cranberries. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side for dinner. Fresh, fruity, and packed with texture, this salad is sure to become a favorite.

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
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth and rinsed quinoa to a boil. Stir in the dried cranberries, cover the pot, and remove it from heat. Let it stand for 15 minutes, then fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer it to a large salad bowl.
2. Step 2: While the quinoa rests, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground allspice, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
3. Step 3: Add the diced apple, celery, fresh parsley, and candied walnuts to the quinoa. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly mixed.
4. Step 4: Serve the salad immediately for a fresh taste, or chill it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors deepen. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute candied walnuts with toasted pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
• For extra protein, add cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken.
• You can swap gala apples for Fuji or Honeycrisp for varying sweetness.
• Add a handful of baby spinach or arugula for a leafy boost.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld nicely when chilled, but to keep the nuts crunchy, consider adding them just before serving. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use water instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, you can use water, but vegetable broth adds extra flavor that enhances the quinoa and overall salad.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based, making it a great vegan option.