Description
Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad is a warm and hearty dish that celebrates the flavors of autumn. This vibrant salad combines nutrient-rich quinoa, sweet roasted butternut squash, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans for a delightful medley of taste and texture. Perfect for cozy gatherings or as a healthy weeknight meal, this recipe will warm your heart as you savor every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 cups butternut squash, diced
- 1 large apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (or kale)
- 1/3 cup pecans, toasted
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa under cold water until clear. In a pot, combine quinoa and water/broth; bring to boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast on a baking sheet for about 25 minutes until tender.
- Chop the apple and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted squash, apples, cranberries, and spinach/kale.
- Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour over salad; toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately or chill to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg