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Quinoa Apple Salad

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Quinoa Apple Salad is a light and refreshing dish packed with crunchy apples, fluffy quinoa, nuts, dried fruit, and a tangy maple dressing. It’s perfect as a side dish, meal prep, or a healthy lunch!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Salad:

1 cup (185g) quinoa, rinsed

2 cups (480ml) water or vegetable broth

1 large apple, diced (Honeycrisp or Fuji work well)

1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans

1/4 cup (35g) dried cranberries or raisins

1/4 cup (30g) crumbled feta cheese (optional)

2 tbsp fresh parsley or mint, chopped

1/4 cup (40g) pomegranate seeds (optional)

For the Dressing:

3 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper


Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil.
  2. Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
  3. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

  1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced apple, walnuts, dried cranberries, feta cheese (if using), and fresh herbs.
  2. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to coat evenly.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Garnish with pomegranate seeds if using.
  2. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a heartier meal.
  • Nut-Free Option: Swap nuts for pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
  • Make It Vegan: Use dairy-free feta or omit cheese.