How to use quinoa in salad?

Use quinoa as a base grain, cooked and cooled completely before mixing with other ingredients. It pairs well with leafy greens, fruits, nuts, and a vinaigrette-style dressing. Always rinse before cooking to remove bitterness and fluff it once done to maintain light texture.

What is a salad with apples and walnuts called?

While there’s no single universal name, salads featuring apples and walnuts are often called apple walnut salads. When quinoa is added, it becomes an apple walnut quinoa salad—a nutrient-dense twist on a fall favorite.

Is apple walnut salad good for you?

Absolutely. Apple walnut quinoa salad offers a well-rounded mix of fiber, protein, antioxidants, and healthy fats. It supports heart health, digestion, and sustained energy while being naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.

How long does quinoa salad keep?

Quinoa salad stays fresh for about 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly. Keep dressing and fresh elements like apples and nuts separate until serving to maintain crispness and flavor integrity.

Apple Walnut Quinoa Salad – A Fall Favorite Packed with Flavor and Nutrition

Description

Apple Walnut Quinoa Salad blends sweet apples, walnuts, and quinoa in a vibrant fall dish with a tangy maple mustard dressing.

Ingredients

For the Maple Mustard Dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 1/2 cups chopped apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, quinoa, chopped apples, cranberries, cheese, and walnuts.
Toss and dress: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine everything evenly.
Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill for a bit before serving for a more refreshing taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 00 minutes
Category: Seasonal and Holiday Salads
Method: No-cook
Cuisine: American