Fresh and Flavorful: Quinoa Salad with Hazelnuts, Apple, and Dried Cranberries

Looking for a nutritious, colorful, and delicious salad that’s perfect for any meal? Quinoa Salad with Hazelnuts, Apple, and Dried Cranberries is a vibrant, wholesome dish that is not only packed with vitamins and minerals but also offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The quinoa provides a rich source of plant-based protein, while the hazelnuts add a satisfying crunch and healthy fats. The apples bring a natural sweetness, complemented by the tartness of dried cranberries, making this salad a refreshing yet hearty option. With the addition of a light dressing, this salad is both energizing and fulfilling, offering a perfect balance of nutrients to keep you satisfied throughout the day.

Servings and Preparation Time

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

This quinoa salad is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner, a packed lunch, or a side dish for a special gathering. The quinoa cooks quickly, and assembling the salad takes only a few minutes. The result is a healthy and delicious dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth (for cooking quinoa)
• 1 apple (sliced into thin matchsticks or diced)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup hazelnuts (lightly toasted and chopped)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional, for a creamy addition)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid and is tender. Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let the quinoa sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains. Set aside and allow it to cool.

Step 2: Toast the Hazelnuts

While the quinoa is cooking, toast the hazelnuts. In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the hazelnuts and toast for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Once toasted, chop them roughly and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tang.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled quinoa, sliced apples, dried cranberries, and toasted hazelnuts. Add the feta cheese, if using. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently until the ingredients are well-coated.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the quinoa salad to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for a chilled option. This salad is delicious both fresh and after it has had time to chill, as the flavors meld together.

Tips for Perfecting Your Quinoa Salad

• Make it Vegan: If you’re looking to make this salad vegan, simply skip the feta cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The salad is still packed with flavors, so the cheese is optional.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to swap out the apple for pear or another crunchy fruit. You can also use other nuts like almonds or walnuts in place of hazelnuts for a different texture. The dried cranberries can be swapped with raisins or dried cherries for a unique twist.
• Prep Ahead: This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the quinoa and chop the ingredients ahead of time, then assemble the salad when you’re ready to serve. The dressing can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
• Extra Protein: If you’d like to turn this salad into a more substantial meal, add a protein source such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even roasted tofu. This adds more texture and will make the salad filling enough to serve as a main course.
• Feel free to add or remove ingredients according to your personal taste. Try adding some crunchy croutons, avocado slices, or even a handful of fresh spinach for extra greens.

Why This Salad is a Must-Try

This Quinoa Salad with Hazelnuts, Apple, and Dried Cranberries is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something vibrant and flavorful. It’s not just a salad; it’s an experience of textures, from the crisp apples to the chewy dried cranberries and crunchy hazelnuts. The light dressing ties everything together with just the right amount of sweetness and tang.

This salad is rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. The quinoa offers a gluten-free base that’s both nutritious and filling, while the fruits and nuts add natural sweetness and crunch. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or a light main course, this salad is a versatile addition to any meal.

Final Thoughts

The Quinoa Salad with Hazelnuts, Apple, and Dried Cranberries is a delightful and nourishing dish that can easily be customized to your liking. The combination of wholesome ingredients offers a variety of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a meal prep option for the week, this salad is sure to satisfy your hunger and nourish your body.

With its perfect blend of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, this salad is a fantastic addition to any healthy eating plan. Make it your own by swapping out ingredients and experimenting with new flavors. It’s a dish that’s not only good for you but also delicious, satisfying, and full of vibrant colors.

Try making this salad today and enjoy the perfect balance of fresh, crunchy, and creamy textures.