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–+ servings
Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad

Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad: Refreshing & Nutritious Bliss

This Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad is a refreshing dish combining quinoa, apples, and cranberries, perfect for a nutritious meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Healthy
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Quinoa Rinse before cooking
  • 2 cups Water Essential for cooking quinoa
  • 1 large Apple Any firm apple variety
  • ½ cup Dried Cranberries Can substitute with dried cherries or raisins
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley Optional but recommended for flavor
  • ¼ cup Sliced Almonds Skip for nut-free version
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil Base for the dressing
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Provides acidity
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Use maple syrup for vegan option
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Adds tangy flavor
  • Salt & Pepper To taste

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Small bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the quinoa by combining 1 cup of rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
  2. Prepare the dressing by whisking together 3 tablespoons 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 bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced apple, dried cranberries, parsley, and sliced almonds. Gently fold together.
  4. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss until well coated. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Give the salad a quick toss before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or light main meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 6gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 10mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

For best results, rinse quinoa to remove bitterness. Use firm apples for best texture. Chill to enhance flavor before serving.

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