Quinoa Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Caramelized Onions
This recipe takes advantage of the virtues of quinoa, the recent darling of the grain world, with this simple but hearty salad. You may be familiar with quinoa's close cousin, red quinoa. True to its name, red quinoa imparts a deep reddish-orange hue to the bowl and has a slightly firmer texture than other varieties. Both red and white quinoa provide complete proteins, but red reigns supreme when it comes to fiber intake. This protein-packed salad is a fantastic make-ahead lunch option that will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply pack a portion into a reusable container and enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
Quinoa has been around for millennia, but it was only recently that this ancient grain gained widespread popularity. Originally cultivated by the Incas in the Andes Mountains of South America, quinoa was an essential food source for the indigenous people of the region. The Incas believed that quinoa was a gift from the gods and referred to it as the "mother grain." In the 16th century, Spanish conquistadors arrived in South America and brought with them European crops such as wheat and barley. These crops quickly became more popular than quinoa, and quinoa cultivation declined. However, in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in quinoa due to its nutritional value and versatility. Today, quinoa is grown all over the world, and it is becoming increasingly popular as a healthy alternative to rice, pasta, and other grains. Quinoa is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. It is also gluten-free, making it a good option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. This recipe for quinoa salad with apples, cranberries, and caramelized onions is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this ancient grain. The salad is made with cooked quinoa, apples, cranberries, caramelized onions, and a simple vinaigrette dressing. It is a refreshing and flavorful salad that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Quinoa Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Caramelized Onions Quinoa Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Caramelized Onions Quinoa Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Caramelized Onions Quinoa Salad with Apples, Cranberries, and Caramelized Onions
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 small apple, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
  1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
  4. While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the red onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.
  6. Add the celery and carrots and sauté for 5 more minutes, or until softened.
  7. Add the apples and cranberries and sauté for 3 minutes, or until the apples are slightly softened.
  8. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the parsley.
Why It Works
  • The combination of quinoa, apples, cranberries, and caramelized onions creates a salad that is both hearty and refreshing.
  • The quinoa provides protein and fiber, while the apples, cranberries, and caramelized onions add sweetness and tartness.
  • The vinaigrette dressing is simple to make and adds a touch of acidity to the salad.
  • This salad is a great make-ahead lunch option that will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.