This Quinoa, Apple and Almond Salad with Honey Lemon Mint Vinaigrette makes a delicious, healthy lunch or side dish that the entire family will love.
Could I have possibly eaten more junk food over the holidays? I don’t think so. I’m guessing I’m not alone here, right? What can I say, the holidays are a time for splurging. We always visit Jeff’s family in Tucson, Arizona where the Mexican food in plentiful and my sister-in-law’s dinners are not to be missed.
This is mildly embarrassing since less than a month ago I was all “I’m on Weight Watchers, blah blah blah.” But you know what? Who cares, it’s fine. I had some fun and now it’s time to get back on track in the New Year. So here’s one of my absolute favorite quinoa recipes: Quinoa, Apple and Almond Salad with Honey Lemon Mint Vinaigrette. The granny smith apples are tart, the almonds add an earthy crunch, the honey provides just the right amount of sweet and the mint is, well, awesome. I know you’ll love this salad just as much as I do.
How To Cook Quinoa
If you’re new to quinoa and want a step-by-step tutorial on preparing it, check out my post: How to Cook Quinoa.
Quinoa, Apple and Almond Salad with Honey Lemon Mint Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 3 cups quinoa, cooked
- ¼ cup scallions, sliced thin
- 1 granny smith apple, diced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup almonds, toasted, rough chopped
Honey lemon mint vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons honey,
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons warm water
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl or blender, whisk together the honey, lemon juice, olive oil, mint, and warm water. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Combine cooked quinoa with apples, toasted almonds, scallions and dried cranberries.
- About 30 minutes before serving drizzle with ½ cup prepared vinaigrette and toss to combine. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Please read my full post for additional recipe notes, tips, and serving suggestions!
Nutrition
Recipe Troubleshooting
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Joy (enjoywithjoy) says
Quinoa is the king of all grains. I love them, they can stand on it’s own or make it with salad or use it as a binder or even sushi :-)
Jennifer @ Mother Thyme says
I’m right there with you getting back on track. This salad is incredible! Definitely making this soon.
afracooking says
I totally agree! Holidays are all about enjoying and celebrating! Much easier to be healthy if you allow yourself to induldge once in a while! This salad looks like it combines the best of both worlds: tasty and healthy! Can’t wait to try!
Have a Happy New Year!
Marta @ What should I eat for breakfast today says
Lovely mix of flavors. I love quinoa and I love to experiment with it :)
Laura (Tutti Dolci) says
Love the flavors and textures of this salad! Especially the vinaigrette!
Erin @ Dinners, Dishes, and Desserts says
Yum!! Love Quinoa, and always need more ways to use it!
Jenn and Seth says
love the flavors in here – so fresh and healthy and delicious!
Cassie | Bake Your Day says
I love this. I could live on quinoa!
Liz says
Apples, cranberries and quiona…whoa, does this sound amazing! Time to break out the bag of quinoa again!
Jen L | Tartine and Apron Strings says
Oh, pht! Who cares? You are allowed to indulge – isn’t that what Weight Watchers is proposing? LOL. I know, I know…everything in moderation, right? Anyway, it’s the new year and you’re back on track with healthy eating. To start off the new year with this tasty salad – priceless! I’m coming over with my fork!
Valerie says
The holidays are meant for unbridled indulgence (I’m still going!). :D
This salad does look refreshing and wonderful!!
Kathleen says
I think we’re all in the same boat after the holidays!!! This salad looks like the perfect solution! :)
Laura Dembowski says
I’ve never had quinoa before but this seems like a great way to try it. I love that it has apples and cranberries in it. Do you think this could make a nice entree or just a side dish?
Jennifer Farley says
I do! One note if you’ve never tried it and I’m wondering if I should add this to the recipe itself. Quinoa can have an odd flavor if you don’t thoroughly wash it first. I like to put it in a fine mesh strainer and put that strainer inside a large bowl. Fill it with cold water, let it sit for a minimum of 5 minutes. Rinse well, drain the water and repeat the process 2 more times. It’s a bit of a pain but really worth it.
Crista says
i pinned this. will be making for breakfast this weekend :)
Carolyn Chan says
Absolutely perfect post for me (and probably for everyone else who ate and drank their own body weight over the festive period !). I was just thinking this morning that I need to research some yummy salad recipes and yours has quinoa which I love too ! Thanks ! (and Happy new year !)
Jennifer Farley says
Happy New Year, Carolyn!