Quinoa Apple Salad

If you’re looking for a light, refreshing dish that’s bursting with flavor, this Quinoa Apple Salad is just what you need! It’s not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re hosting friends for lunch or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, this salad brings a cheerful vibe to the table.

What makes this recipe special is its delightful balance of textures and tastes. The sweet crunch of apples pairs beautifully with the nutty quinoa and the tartness of cranberries. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—perfect for those days when you want something quick yet satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have this tasty salad ready in no time.
• Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein-rich quinoa and fresh veggies, this salad will keep you satisfied without weighing you down.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance and enjoy it as leftovers throughout the week—it’s delicious cold!
• Versatile side dish: Serve it alongside your favorite main course or enjoy it as a stand-alone meal.
• Family-friendly flavors: The sweetness of apples and cranberries makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Quinoa Apple Salad! These items are easy to find at any grocery store and come together beautifully in this refreshing dish.

For the Salad

• 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

For the Dressing

• 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

Variations

This Quinoa Apple Salad is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add more fruits: Toss in some diced pears or mandarin oranges for an extra burst of sweetness.
• Mix up the nuts: Swap candied walnuts for pecans or almonds—each will give a different twist!
• Boost the greens: Add baby spinach or arugula for more leafy greens and color.
• Change the grain: Try using farro or barley instead of quinoa for a different texture.

How to Make Quinoa Apple Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Bring the vegetable broth and rinsed quinoa to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan. This flavorful broth enhances the taste of the quinoa as it cooks. Once boiling, add in the dried cranberries, cover, and remove from heat. Let it stand for about 15 minutes—this will allow the grains to absorb all that wonderful flavor. Afterward, fluff with a fork and transfer it to a large salad bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While your quinoa is cooking away, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground allspice, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. This dressing adds layers of flavor that truly elevate your salad. It’s creamy yet tangy—a perfect match for our other ingredients!

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

In the bowl with your fluffy quinoa, mix in that delectable maple dijon vinaigrette. Next comes the fun part—add in your diced apple, celery, parsley, and candied walnuts! Gently stir everything together until well combined. This salad is delicious served hot right after making it but also shines at room temperature or chilled.

Enjoy this vibrant Quinoa Apple Salad on its own or alongside your favorite dishes like Air Fryer Tofu or Air Fryer Chicken!

Pro Tips for Making Quinoa Apple Salad

Creating the perfect Quinoa Apple Salad is a delightful journey, and these tips will help you make it even better!

• Rinse Your Quinoa: Rinsing quinoa before cooking removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can taste bitter. This simple step ensures your salad has a clean, fresh flavor.

• Let It Cool: After cooking, allow the quinoa to cool before adding other ingredients. This prevents the salad from wilting and helps maintain the crunchiness of fresh vegetables.

• Mix It Up: Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite fruits or nuts. Adding ingredients like chopped pears or almonds can bring new flavors and textures to your dish.

• Make It Ahead: Preparing this salad in advance enhances the flavors as they meld together over time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for an easy grab-and-go meal.

• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings according to your preference. A little extra maple syrup or salt can make all the difference in elevating the overall taste of your salad.

How to Serve Quinoa Apple Salad

Presentation is key when serving your Quinoa Apple Salad! Here are some creative ways to enjoy it:

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or mint on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Feta Cheese Alternative: For a creamy touch without dairy, consider crumbled vegan feta or a nut-based cheese.
• Pomegranate Seeds: Add a handful of pomegranate seeds just before serving for a burst of sweetness and crunch.

Side Dishes

• Air Fryer Tofu: Crispy tofu pairs well with the salad’s fruity flavors while adding protein—perfect for a wholesome meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers complement the freshness of the salad beautifully.
• Roasted Chickpeas: Spiced roasted chickpeas provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft apples and quinoa.
• Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a warm, comforting side that balances out the crispness of the salad.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Quinoa Apple Salad will not only delight your taste buds but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite of this nutritious dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quinoa Apple Salad is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. You can prepare it in advance, store it, and have a nutritious dish ready whenever hunger strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, keep the vinaigrette separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the quinoa base without added ingredients.
• Allow the quinoa to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat only the quinoa portion in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying.
• Add fresh ingredients like apples and walnuts just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Quinoa Apple Salad.

Can I make this Quinoa Apple Salad vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as it does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. Enjoy this healthy salad knowing it’s plant-based!

How long does Quinoa Apple Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Quinoa Apple Salad will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep any dressing separate if you’re prepping ahead!

What can I substitute for walnuts in my Quinoa Apple Salad?

If you have nut allergies or simply prefer not to use walnuts, you can substitute them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture.

Can I add other fruits to my Quinoa Apple Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative—berries, pears, or even citrus segments would be delicious additions that complement the flavors beautifully.

Is Quinoa Apple Salad gluten-free?

Yes! Quinoa is a gluten-free grain, making this salad an excellent choice for those following a gluten-free diet.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful Quinoa Apple Salad! It’s not just a dish; it’s an opportunity to enjoy wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Whether you’re having it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite add-ins!