Description
Make this Cranberry Apple Quinoa Salad! Fluffy quinoa, crisp apples, crunchy pecans, and a tangy vinaigrette create the perfect fresh, nourishing dish for any meal.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
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1 cup uncooked quinoa
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½ cup diced celery
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2 green onions, sliced
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1 cup diced apple
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â…“ cup toasted pecans, chopped
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â…“ cup dried cranberries
For the Vinaigrette:
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2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
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¼ teaspoon granulated garlic
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Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
Cook the quinoa according to package instructions, adding a pinch of salt to the water.
Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool completely to room temperature.
Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette
While the quinoa is cooling, combine the apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and granulated garlic in a small bowl or jar.
Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Once the quinoa has cooled, transfer it to a large serving bowl.
Add the diced celery, sliced green onions, diced apple, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad.
Toss everything gently until all the ingredients are well coated and evenly distributed.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately for maximum freshness, or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld.
It’s delicious either way!
Storage Instructions
Keep Fresh:
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
If storing longer, you may want to add a splash of fresh vinaigrette just before serving to refresh the flavors.
Make Ahead:
You can cook the quinoa and prepare the vinaigrette a day ahead.
Combine everything just before serving for the freshest results.
Warm Up:
This salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature.
No warming needed.