Description

This Quinoa Salad with Cranberries, Apple, and Candied Walnuts is a refreshing and healthy dish, combining nutty quinoa with the sweetness of apples, cranberries, and crunchy candied walnuts. Tossed with a flavorful maple Dijon vinaigrette, it’s a perfect side or light meal that can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

1 1/2 cups vegetable broth

3/4 cup tricolor quinoa, rinsed

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1 gala apple, diced into 1/4-inch cubes

1/4 cup celery, diced into 1/4-inch cubes

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup candied walnuts

For the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette:

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon maple syrup

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 garlic clove, minced

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

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Instructions

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa and dried cranberries. Cover and remove from heat. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the quinoa to absorb the liquid. After 15 minutes, fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer it to a large salad bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground allspice, black pepper, and kosher salt to make the vinaigrette.
Once the quinoa has cooled slightly, pour the maple Dijon vinaigrette over the quinoa and cranberries. Stir to combine and ensure the quinoa is evenly coated with the dressing.
Add the diced apple, celery, parsley, and candied walnuts to the bowl. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients.
Serve the salad at your preferred temperature—whether hot, at room temperature, or chilled.

Notes

Add protein: For a more filling meal, top the salad with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese.

Substitute the apple: Swap the gala apple for pears or use another variety of apple for a different flavor profile.

Vegan option: This recipe is already vegan, but you can make it even heartier by adding roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash.

Add more nuts: Try adding almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds for more crunch and variety.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Salad, Side Dish, Light Meal
Method: Tossing
Cuisine: American, Vegan