Apple Cranberry Quinoa Salad: Elevate Your Taste Buds

Growing up, fall was always my favorite time of the year. The crisp air and vibrant foliage were just the backdrop to the real highlight: my family’s apple cranberry quinoa salad. It wasn’t just a dish; it was a tradition. Each year, we’d gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter, while savoring the sweet and tangy flavors that brought us all together.

This apple cranberry quinoa salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of everything I love about fall. The combination of diced apple, dried cranberries, and crumbled goat cheese creates a melody of flavors that dance on your taste buds. It’s a dish that embodies warmth and comfort, yet remains light and refreshing.

As we explore the intricacies of this dish, you’ll discover how simple ingredients can transform into something truly magical. The apple cranberry quinoa salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering. Join me on this culinary adventure as we dive into the heart of this delightful recipe.

Apple Cranberry Quinoa Salad

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Discover a delicious Apple Cranberry Quinoa Salad recipe that combines sweet and savory flavors for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Perfect for a healthy lunch or side dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) uncooked quinoa
• 1 cup (240 ml) low sodium vegetable or beef broth
• 2 cups (480 ml) baby spinach, chopped
• 1 apple, diced
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) crumbled goat cheese
• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons (22.5 ml) apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons (10 ml) pure maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) mustard
• sea salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. Place the quinoa and broth into a small saucepan. Heat until boiling, then cover, lower the heat, and let it gently cook for 15 minutes until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid. Take it off the heat and allow it to rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Spread it on a large plate or baking sheet to cool slightly.
2. Meanwhile, as the quinoa cools, prepare the dressing. In a bowl or a small jar, mix or shake all the dressing ingredients together. Add sea salt according to your taste.
3. In a big bowl, mix the quinoa, spinach, apple, dried cranberries, almonds, and goat cheese. Pour the maple cider vinaigrette over it and toss everything together until well combined.

Notes

• Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet for enhanced flavor and texture.
• Substitute feta cheese for goat cheese for a different taste experience.
• Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein to turn it into a full meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 15g

Keywords: quinoa salad, apple spinach, maple vinaigrette, healthy lunch, vegetarian recipe

Delightful Apple Cranberry Quinoa Salad

Fundamentals

The foundation of this apple cranberry quinoa salad lies in its thoughtful selection of ingredients. Quinoa serves as a protein-rich base, absorbing the flavors of the low sodium broth perfectly. The diced apple adds a refreshing crunch, while the dried cranberries bring a hint of sweetness. Combined with baby spinach, sliced almonds, and crumbled goat cheese, each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

The dressing is where the magic happens. A blend of extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, pure maple syrup, and mustard creates a tangy vinaigrette that ties everything together. Sea salt enhances the overall flavor, making each ingredient shine. This simple yet effective dressing elevates the salad, ensuring it’s as delicious as it is nutritious.

Preparation/setup

Start by cooking the quinoa in the broth until it’s fluffy and perfectly cooked. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly on a large plate or baking sheet. This step is crucial to prevent the spinach from wilting instantly when mixed.

As the quinoa cools, prepare the maple cider vinaigrette by mixing all the dressing ingredients in a small jar or bowl. Shake or whisk until well combined, then set aside. This ensures the flavors meld together beautifully, ready to infuse the salad with their vibrant taste.

A Flavorful Twist on Tradition

Technique

Mixing the ingredients requires a gentle touch. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chopped baby spinach, diced apple, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and crumbled goat cheese. Pour the maple cider vinaigrette over the top, and toss gently to ensure an even distribution of flavors without crushing any ingredients.

This salad shines in its simplicity. By allowing the natural flavors of each component to stand out, the dish becomes a symphony of tastes. The key is to ensure each element is prepped and ready, allowing them to blend harmoniously.

Tips and tricks

To enhance the flavor, consider toasting the almonds lightly before adding them to the salad. This simple step can deepen their nutty flavor and add an extra layer of warmth to the dish.

If you find the salad too tangy, adjust the dressing by adding a touch more maple syrup. This balances the acidity of the apple cider vinegar, creating a more rounded taste. For other variations, you might explore cranberry walnut chickpea salad or a cranberry jello salad recipe for inspiration.

Elevating Your Apple Cranberry Quinoa Salad

Perfecting results

To achieve the perfect apple cranberry quinoa salad, focus on the quality and freshness of your ingredients. Fresh spinach and crisp apples make a world of difference. Always choose the best quality quinoa and broth for a flavorful base.

When combining the dressing, allow it to sit for a few minutes before pouring over the salad. This waiting period enhances the flavors, ensuring they meld perfectly with the salad ingredients. Remember, patience is key to a delicious outcome.

Troubleshooting and variations

Should you encounter issues like the quinoa being too wet, spread it on a baking sheet and let it dry slightly before mixing. This ensures it absorbs the flavors of the dressing effectively.

Experiment with variations by adding different nuts or cheese. Feta can be a great substitute for goat cheese, offering a tangy contrast. For more salad inspiration, try our warm beetroot and apple salad or roasted beet and apple salad.

Serving Your Masterpiece

Serving and presentation

Present this apple cranberry quinoa salad in a large, shallow bowl to showcase its vibrant colors. Top with a few extra slices of apple and a sprinkle of almonds for an appealing finish.

This dish is perfect as a standalone meal or alongside other seasonal favorites. Its versatility makes it a great addition to any meal, whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones.

Pairings and storage

Pair the salad with a hearty soup or grilled chicken for a complete meal. For more pairing ideas, explore this butternut squash and cranberry quinoa salad.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it a delightful next-day meal. For a protein-packed option, consider this sous vide chicken salad bowl.

Conclusion

The apple cranberry quinoa salad is a celebration of flavors and textures, perfectly capturing the essence of fall. With its blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty elements, it offers a delightful culinary experience that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Whether serving it as a main or a side, its versatility and ease make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. By focusing on quality ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a dish that not only pleases the palate but also brings people together. Enjoy the beauty of home cooking with this delicious salad.

FAQs – Apple Cranberry Quinoa Salad