Quinoa Apple Salad Recipe

This Fresh Quinoa Apple Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and crunchy textures. I developed this recipe to be a reliable, make-ahead lunch that stays fresh for days, and after numerous tests, I can confirm the maple-Dijon dressing is the key to its addictive flavor. It’s a simple yet sophisticated salad that works beautifully as a hearty side or a satisfying main course.

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Quinoa Apple Salad: A Fruity, Fresh & Flavor-Packed Favorite

  • Author: Dorothy Miller

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
  • ¾ cup tricolor quinoa, rinsed
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • 1 gala apple, diced into ¼-inch cubes
  • ¼ cup celery, diced into ¼-inch cubes
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup candied walnuts
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth and rinsed quinoa to a boil. Stir in cranberries, cover, and remove from heat. Let stand for 15 minutes, then fluff with a fork and transfer to a large salad bowl.
  2. While the quinoa is resting, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic, allspice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  3. Add diced apple, celery, parsley, and candied walnuts to the quinoa. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss until well combined.
  4. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.

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