Easy Quinoa Salad with Dried Fruits and Veggies: A Nutritious Power Bowl
Looking for a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s both delicious and easy to make? This quinoa salad with dried fruits and veggies is a vibrant, nutrient-rich dish perfect for lunches, meal prep, or a light dinner. Packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and natural sweetness, it’s a crowd-pleaser that keeps you energized. Below, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to make this flavorful salad—plus tips to customize it!
Why You’ll Love This Quinoa Salad
This recipe balances savory and sweet with crunchy veggies, chewy dried fruits, and fluffy quinoa. It’s:
- Meal-prep friendly – Stays fresh for days.
- Gluten-free & vegan – Great for dietary restrictions.
- Rich in protein – Quinoa provides all nine essential amino acids.
Ingredients for Quinoa Salad with Dried Fruits and Veggies
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa (white or tri-color)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (or chopped apricots)
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/3 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds (or walnuts)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
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- Crumbled feta or goat cheese
- Avocado slices
- Fresh herbs (parsley, mint)
How to Make Quinoa Salad with Dried Fruits and Veggies
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
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- Rinse quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness.
- In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water/broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and let cool.
Step 2: Prep the Ingredients
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- Chop all veggies and toast nuts (if using raw).
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, mix cooled quinoa, dried fruits, veggies, and nuts.
- Drizzle with dressing and toss gently. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Rendimento: 4 servings.
- Dificuldade: Easy.
- Tempo de Preparo: 25 minutes (including cooling).
- Utensílios: Saucepan, knife, mixing bowl, measuring cups.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add fresh herbs just before serving.
Quinoa Salad with Dried Fruits and Veggies: A Versatile Dish
This salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch. For extra protein, add grilled chicken or chickpeas. The sweet-and-tangy flavors make it a year-round favorite!
