Quinoa Apple Salad

🛒 Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa (uncooked)

2 cups water or vegetable broth

2 medium apples, cored and diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work well)

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted for extra flavor)

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

2 cups baby spinach or arugula

🍋 For the Dressing:

3 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

1 tsp Dijon mustard

Salt and black pepper to taste

🔥 Instructions:

Cook the Quinoa:

Rinse the quinoa under cold water.

In a medium pot, combine quinoa and water (or broth). Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is tender and water is absorbed.

Fluff with a fork and let it cool.

Prepare the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, diced apples, cranberries, nuts, red onion, and greens.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Finishing Touches:

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top if using.

Chill for 10–15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

✨ Tips & Variations:

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas.

Extra Crunch: Toss in pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.

Flavor Twist: Add fresh herbs like mint or parsley.

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