Brighten up your mealtime with this vibrant Quinoa Salad with Apple and Edamame—a refreshing, protein-packed dish that's bursting with flavor and texture. This wholesome recipe combines fluffy quinoa with crunchy apples, tender edamame, and toasted almonds, all brought together with a zesty lemon-honey dressing. Fresh parsley and a hint of red onion add aromatic depth, making this salad as visually appealing as it is delicious. Ready in just 35 minutes, this quick and easy salad is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a healthy make-ahead meal. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and a touch of natural sweetness, it’s a nutritious and satisfying option for any occasion.
Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove its natural bitterness.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed.
While the quinoa is cooking, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the frozen edamame and cook for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Core and dice the apple into small, bite-sized pieces. Add them to a large mixing bowl along with the cooked edamame, diced red onion, chopped parsley, and toasted almonds.
Once the quinoa has finished cooking, fluff it with a fork and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Add the cooled quinoa to the bowl with the other ingredients.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy!
Calories |
1046 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 37.1 g | 48% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.4 g | 12% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2429 mg | 106% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 132.2 g | 48% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.0 g | 61% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.1 g | ||
| Protein | 56.0 g | 112% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 404 mg | 31% | |
| Iron | 14.4 mg | 80% | |
| Potassium | 1868 mg | 40% | |
*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.