Delicious Cranberry Pecan Quinoa Salad: A Flavorful Delight

Delicious Cranberry Pecan Quinoa Salad with Apples and Maple Dressing is a nutritious powerhouse that delights with vibrant flavors.

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Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Apple Salad, Cranberry Salad, Healthy Salad, Maple Dressing, Pecan Salad, Quinoa Salad

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 10

Total Time: 25

Servings: servings

Calories: 350kcal

Equipment

Saucepan
Small Bowl
Serving bowl

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

1.5 cups Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth) For cooking quinoa; swap to vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
1 large Crisp Apple Chopped; Honeycrisp or Gala varieties are delightful options.
1 cup Quinoa Rinse before cooking to enhance flavor.

For the Sweet Maple Dressing

1.5 tablespoons Maple Syrup Opt for real maple syrup for the best flavor.
3 tablespoons Olive Oil Extra virgin provides superior taste.
0.25 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon A small amount goes a long way!
Salt and Ground Black Pepper Season to taste.

For the Crunch Factor

1 cup Pecan Pieces Feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds.
0.5 cup Dried Cranberries Raisins or other dried fruits can be used as alternatives.

Optional Additions

0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Omit for a dairy-free salad.

Instructions

How to Make Delicious Cranberry Pecan Quinoa Salad

In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth and quinoa to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork once done.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon. Season generously with salt and pepper for flavor balance.
Drizzle the freshly made dressing over the warm quinoa and mix well, allowing the flavors to meld.
Stir in the chopped apple, pecan pieces, dried cranberries, and optional grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
Cover the pan and let it steam for 5-10 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld while keeping the apple crisp.
Transfer the salad to a lovely serving bowl. For an additional touch of sweetness, drizzle a little extra maple syrup before sharing!

Notes

Store leftovers tightly covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the salad (minus the apples) for up to 2 months.

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