Apple Cranberry Quinoa Salad Recipe
A refreshing and nutritious Apple Cranberry Quinoa Salad featuring tender quinoa, crisp apples, tangy dried cranberries, crunchy sliced almonds, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed in a zesty maple cider vinaigrette. This wholesome salad combines vibrant flavors and textures perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 cup low sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
- 1 apple, diced
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: Combine the quinoa and broth in a small pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the broth. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Transfer the quinoa to a large plate or baking sheet to allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare Dressing: While the quinoa cools, combine the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and sea salt in a bowl or small jar. Stir or shake well to emulsify the dressing and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, mix together the cooled quinoa, chopped baby spinach, diced apple, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and crumbled goat cheese. Drizzle the salad with the prepared maple cider vinaigrette and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated and combined.
Notes
- Using low sodium broth helps control the overall saltiness of the salad. Adjust salt to your preference.
- Allowing the quinoa to cool before mixing prevents the spinach from wilting and keeps the salad fresh.
- Feel free to substitute almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different crunch and flavor.
- This salad can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days; just toss before serving.
- For a vegan version, omit the goat cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
Keywords: apple cranberry quinoa salad, healthy quinoa salad, spinach salad with quinoa, goat cheese salad, autumn salad, easy quinoa recipes
Find it online: https://nayabaker.com/apple-cranberry-quinoa-salad-recipe/
