Quinoa Apple Salad

If you’re looking for a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings a delightful crunch and burst of flavor, then this Quinoa Apple Salad is just what you need! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home because it’s not only incredibly tasty but also super easy to whip up. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a lively family gathering, this salad fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make it as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

With the combination of sweet apples, chewy cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, this salad is a true celebration of flavors and textures. It’s versatile enough to serve as a refreshing side dish or a satisfying lunch on its own. Trust me, once you try making this Quinoa Apple Salad, it will be on your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with fiber and protein from quinoa and nuts, making it a great choice for healthy eating.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: The delightful mix of flavors appeals to both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or potlucks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it hot, at room temperature, or chilled—perfect for any season!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create our delicious Quinoa Apple Salad. You’ll find that these items are likely already in your pantry or easy to pick up at the store.

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

One of the best things about this Quinoa Apple Salad is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative and adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or grated carrots for added color and nutrition.
• Change the Nuts: Swap out candied walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
• Try Different Fruits: Substitute gala apples with pears or add some chopped grapes for extra sweetness.
• Boost the Protein: Add chickpeas or cooked lentils to make this salad even more filling.

How to Make Quinoa Apple Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Begin by bringing the vegetable broth and rinsed quinoa to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Adding cranberries at this stage allows them to plump up beautifully while the quinoa cooks. Once boiling, cover the pot and remove it from heat. Let it stand for 15 minutes—this step is crucial because you want those grains to absorb all that flavorful broth. Afterward, fluff the quinoa with a fork before transferring it to a large salad bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While your quinoa is cooking away, whisk together your dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Combine extra virgin olive oil, maple syrup, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground allspice, salt, and pepper. This dressing is not only easy to make but adds that zingy flavor that ties all components together beautifully!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your quinoa has cooled slightly (it can be warm but should not be steaming), pour in the maple dijon vinaigrette. Give everything a gentle toss before folding in diced apples, celery, fresh parsley, and candied walnuts. Each ingredient plays its part—bringing crunchiness from nuts and freshness from herbs!

And there you have it! Serve your Quinoa Apple Salad hot, at room temperature, or cold—it’s delicious no matter how you choose to enjoy it! I love pairing mine with Air Fryer Tofu or Air Fryer Chicken for a complete meal experience that everyone will adore!

Pro Tips for Making Quinoa Apple Salad

Making a salad as vibrant and delicious as this Quinoa Apple Salad is a breeze when you have the right tips in your back pocket! Here are some pro tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly every time:

• Rinse the quinoa: This step removes any bitter coating called saponin, giving your salad a cleaner taste. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference!
• Let it cool: Allowing the quinoa to cool before mixing in other ingredients helps maintain the crispness of the apples and celery, ensuring every bite is fresh.
• Customize with seasonal fruits: Feel free to swap out the gala apple for other seasonal fruits like pears or berries. This adds variety and keeps your salad exciting throughout the year!
• Make it ahead of time: Quinoa Apple Salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on your preference, you can increase or decrease the maple syrup in the vinaigrette. This flexibility allows you to tailor the sweetness just right for you!

How to Serve Quinoa Apple Salad

Serving your Quinoa Apple Salad beautifully can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive gathering. Here are some delightful suggestions:

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of extra parsley or even mint adds a burst of color and freshness that enhances both presentation and flavor.
• Additional nuts: A few more candied walnuts or even sliced almonds on top will not only provide crunch but also make it look irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Air Fryer Tofu: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, this dish complements the salad perfectly while adding protein to your meal.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of seasonal vegetables add both texture and flavor, making them an ideal match for this refreshing salad.
• Chickpea Patties: These savory patties bring heartiness to your meal. Their flavor pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the apple salad.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the tart cranberries in the salad, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Quinoa Apple Salad and sharing it with family and friends! It’s not just about nourishment; it’s about creating moments around good food.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quinoa Apple Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. It holds up well in the fridge, making it a convenient and healthy option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Avoid adding the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep the salad fresh.

Freezing

• While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it without the dressing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before eating.

Reheating

• If you prefer your quinoa warm, gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of vegetable broth.
• Stir occasionally until heated through; avoid overheating to maintain texture.
• You can also enjoy it cold straight from the fridge!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Quinoa Apple Salad without nuts?

Absolutely! You can leave out the candied walnuts or substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture.

How long does Quinoa Apple Salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this Quinoa Apple Salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

What can I serve with Quinoa Apple Salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or as part of a larger spread. It’s versatile enough to complement various dishes!

Can I use different fruits in my Quinoa Apple Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to swap in seasonal fruits like pears or berries for a unique twist on flavors while keeping the base intact.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Quinoa Apple Salad as delightful as I do! It’s colorful, nutritious, and brings together wonderful flavors that are sure to brighten your day. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!