Go Back
–+ servings
Quinoa Apple Salad

Quinoa Apple Salad: Fresh, Crunchy Goodness in Every Bite

This Quinoa Apple Salad combines nutritious ingredients for a healthy and delicious meal, perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Steeping Time 15 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup tricolor quinoa Rinse before cooking
  • 1 cup diced apple Gala or Honeycrisp recommended
  • 0.5 cup dried cranberries Can be substituted with raisins
  • 0.5 cup candied walnuts Plain toasted nuts for nut-free option
  • 1 cup chopped celery Fresh stalks preferred
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley Mint can be used instead
For the Vinaigrette
  • 0.25 cup olive oil Avocado oil as a substitute
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup Agave syrup can replace
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Yellow mustard for a milder taste
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar White wine vinegar as an alternative
  • 1 clove garlic Can be omitted
  • 0.5 teaspoon allspice Can substitute with a pinch of cinnamon

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Rinse quinoa under cold water and combine with vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  2. Stir in dried cranberries after quinoa is cooked, cover, and let it sit for 15 minutes.
  3. Whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and allspice in a small bowl.
  4. Fluff the quinoa with a fork, let it cool for 5 minutes.
  5. Combine the cooled quinoa and cranberries with diced apple, chopped celery, chopped parsley, and candied walnuts.
  6. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 60mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For optimal freshness, store apples and candied walnuts separately until ready to serve. Adjust seasoning of the dressing to personal preference.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!