Description
A refreshing and nutritious quinoa salad featuring apples, cranberries, and walnuts, perfect for a light meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups water
- 1 medium apple, diced (preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced apple, chopped celery, dried cranberries, walnuts, feta cheese (if using), and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the cooled quinoa to the large bowl with the other ingredients. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad.
- Substitute the apple with pear or add citrus segments for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling and Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg