Quinoa Apple Salad: A Fruity, Fresh & Flavor-Packed Favorite
Quinoa Apple Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the crisp sweetness of apples. Tossed in a delightful maple Dijon vinaigrette and complemented by dried cranberries, candied walnuts, and fresh parsley, this salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious lunch option, a colorful side at gatherings, or a satisfying meal prep dish, this fruity salad fits the bill. With its gluten-free and vegetarian ingredients, it caters to various dietary preferences while delivering an explosion of flavors in every bite. Easy to prepare in just 20 minutes, Quinoa Apple Salad is sure to become your new favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
- ¾ cup tricolor quinoa, rinsed
- ¾ cup dried cranberries
- 1 gala apple, diced into ½-inch cubes
- ¾ cup celery, diced into ½-inch cubes
- ¾ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¾ cup candied walnuts
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¾ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth and rinsed quinoa to a boil. Stir in dried cranberries. Cover and remove from heat; let stand for 15 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground allspice, salt, and pepper.
- In a large salad bowl, combine fluffed quinoa with diced apple, celery, chopped parsley, and candied walnuts. Pour the vinaigrette over the mixture and toss until well combined.
- Serve immediately or chill for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg