Fruit and Nutty Quinoa Salad

This may be my favorite quinoa dish I have ever made. It reminds me of spring and I am waiting for the nice weather to come visit Vermont. It is simple, yet fresh... sweet, yet a bit savory. It includes 4 of the 5 food groups and plenty of healthy fats for a satisfying flavor. The raw vegetables and crisp apple give it the perfect amount of crunch. I made this dish for a group of people that have never had quinoa and it was a hit. Serve as a side dish, over a green salad, or enjoyed on its own for alight meal. It is perfect for leftovers the next day and stays fresh for up to 4 days. Enjoy! 

 

Fruit and Nutty Quinoa Salad

Makes 8 servings

 

Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa

1 cup craisins

1 apple, diced

½ cup diced celery

½ cup chopped pecans

1 cup green beans, cut into 1” pieces

¼ cup scallions, sliced

¼ cup balsamic vinegar

1.5 Tbsp olive oil

2 cloves garlic, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Feta cheese, for garnish

 

Directions:

1. Place quinoa in a saucepan with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce to medium heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until water is evaporated. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Add craisins, apple, celery, pecans, green beans, and scallions to the quinoa.

3. In a small bowl, whisk vinegar, oil, and garlic. Pour over quinoa and mix well. Season with salt and pepper and chill for at least 20 minutes.

4. Serve with Tbsp of crumbled feta cheese on top.