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–+ servings
Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad

Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad That Freshens Up Your Meals

Enjoy the refreshing and healthy Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad, packed with protein and vibrant flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup quinoa Rinse before cooking to eliminate bitterness.
  • 2 cups water Essential for cooking quinoa fluffy.
  • 1 medium apple Use firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries Can be substituted with dried cherries or raisins.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley Enhances freshness and color.
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds Substitute with walnuts or sunflower seeds if desired.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup olive oil Rich dressing base, adding depth to the flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Balances sweetness with zesty acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon honey Can be swapped with agave syrup for a vegan version.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Optional, contributes spice and complexity.
  • to taste salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Small Bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled quinoa, diced apple, dried cranberries, chopped parsley, and sliced almonds. Gently fold the ingredients together.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss lightly to coat all ingredients thoroughly.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. After chilling, give the salad a gentle toss before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 240mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Make the salad a day in advance for best flavor. Prepare quinoa and dressing ahead, but add apples just before serving to keep them crisp.

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