Craving a light yet satisfying meal? This Apple Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of Healthy Apple Recipes. You’ll love how easily you can prepare this vibrant dish for lunch or a side.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Quinoa: A complete protein, providing a great base. You can use any color of quinoa.
- Apples: Crisp, sweet, or tart apples work best. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are excellent choices.
- Dried Cranberries: Add a pop of sweetness and chewiness. Dried cherries or raisins are good alternatives.
- Pecans: Toasted pecans provide crunch and nutty flavor. Walnuts or slivered almonds can be used instead.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Essential for the tangy dressing. Lemon juice is a suitable substitute.
- Olive Oil: A healthy fat for the dressing. Avocado oil also works well.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 medium apples, cored and diced (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, lightly toasted and chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350
- Tools Needed: Medium saucepan, large mixing bowl, whisk, sharp knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
First, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare the Apples and Pecans
While the quinoa cooks, dice your apples into small, bite-sized pieces. Lightly toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, watching them carefully so they don’t burn. This enhances their flavor.
3. Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup or honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients
Transfer the fluffed quinoa to a large mixing bowl. Add the diced apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and fresh parsley to the bowl. Gently pour the dressing over the ingredients.
5. Toss and Serve
Carefully toss all the ingredients until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. You can serve this salad immediately or chill it for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully. This is one of those Healthy Apple Recipes you’ll enjoy at any temperature.
Variation Ideas
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
- Vegetable Boost: Include finely diced cucumber, bell peppers, or shredded carrots.
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dressing for extra brightness.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh mint or dill instead of parsley.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Apple Quinoa Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The apples might soften slightly over time, but the flavors will still be delicious. This salad is best enjoyed chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need to rinse quinoa?
A: Yes, rinsing quinoa helps remove saponins, which can give it a bitter taste.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! It’s an excellent make-ahead dish. The flavors often improve after chilling for a few hours.
Q: What kind of apples are best for this recipe?
A: Crisp, firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith work well. Choose your favorite!
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
A: You can, but they will be much tarter. You might want to cook them lightly with a bit of sweetener first.
Q: How can I make this salad vegan?
A: This recipe is already vegan if you use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
