Quinoa Apple and Blueberry Salad
Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor, this Quinoa Apple and Blueberry Salad is the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and vibrant tastes. Featuring protein-packed quinoa, crisp diced apple, sweet juicy blueberries, and nutrient-rich baby spinach, this salad is a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor. Toasted pecans bring a satisfying crunch, while a light, zesty dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and honey ties it all together. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle on some creamy feta cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, this gluten-free salad is ideal for healthy lunches, summer picnics, or colorful side dishes. Whether served immediately or chilled for added flavor, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fresh produce at its finest!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 large apple (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup blueberries
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 0.5 cup pecans (optional, toasted)
- 0.25 cup feta cheese (optional, crumbled)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under running water to remove any bitterness from the natural coating (saponin).
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the other ingredients. Core and dice the apple into small bite-sized pieces. Wash and dry the blueberries and baby spinach.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced apple, blueberries, baby spinach, and toasted pecans (if using). Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for added flavor and creaminess.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy your fresh and healthy Quinoa Apple and Blueberry Salad!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1675 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 95.0 g | 122% | |
| Saturated Fat | 17.0 g | 85% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 53 mg | 18% | |
| Sodium | 2516 mg | 109% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 175.4 g | 64% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.4 g | 62% | |
| Total Sugars | 62.7 g | ||
| Protein | 40.8 g | 82% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 462 mg | 36% | |
| Iron | 9.2 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 717 mg | 15% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
