Name: Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad that Refreshes Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa (rinsed); ½ cup dried cranberries; ½ cup sliced almonds (toasted if possible); 2 cups fresh spinach; ½ cup feta cheese (optional); 3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or lime juice); to taste salt; to taste pepper

Amid the hustle and bustle of daily life, I stumbled upon a delightful creation that quickly became my go-to dish: the Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad. This incredibly nutritious and gluten-free salad brings together the tangy sweetness of dried cranberries, the satisfying crunch of almonds, and the fluffy charm of quinoa. Perfect for those busy weeknights or as a vibrant centerpiece at your next gathering, this salad is not only easy to whip up in just a few minutes, but it also adapts beautifully to suit your taste with a variety of ingredients. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a potluck, this colorful salad is designed to invigorate your palate and nourish your body. Curious about how to create this fresh and filling masterpiece? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Nutritious and Delicious: This Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad is packed with healthy ingredients that provide essential nutrients while tantalizing your taste buds.
Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this salad ready in no time, making it a perfect option for hectic weeknights.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to personalize it by adding your favorite mix-ins, like roasted vegetables or fresh herbs, to enhance its appeal.
Colorful and Inviting: Its vibrant colors and textures not only look appealing but also make it a delightful centerpiece for any gathering.
Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare this salad up to three days in advance, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping or packed lunches. Want to explore more vibrant options? Check out my Napa Chicken Salad for another nutritious delight!

Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad Ingredients

• A vibrant mix awaits!

For the Salad

Quinoa – This base grain is a fantastic source of protein and a nutty flavor; remember to rinse it before cooking to remove any bitterness.
Dried Cranberries – They add a delightful mix of sweetness and tartness; feel free to swap in raisins or chopped dates for a different sweet touch.
Sliced Almonds – These provide a satisfying crunch; try replacing them with walnuts or pecans if you’d like a change. Toasting them elevates their flavor!
Fresh Spinach – Offers freshness and a beautiful green hue; kale or mixed greens can be lovely alternatives.
Feta Cheese – It gives a creamy and salty kick; you can omit it for a dairy-free version.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil – This rich ingredient gives depth to the dressing; avocado oil is a great substitute if you want a twist.
Lemon Juice – Brightens up the entire salad; lime juice can step in if needed.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust to suit your taste preferences.

This Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad is ready to uplift your dining experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water to remove its natural bitterness. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Stir in the quinoa, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and allow it to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare Mix-Ins
While the quinoa is cooling, take ½ cup of dried cranberries and combine them with ½ cup of sliced almonds in a mixing bowl. For an extra depth of flavor, consider toasting the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden and fragrant. Allow them to cool before adding to the salad.

Step 3: Assemble Greens
In a large mixing bowl, place 2 cups of fresh spinach and add ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese, if using. Gently toss the spinach and feta together, ensuring an even distribution of the creamy cheese among the fresh greens. The vibrant spinach will provide a beautiful base for your Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad.

Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until the mixture is well-emulsified and smooth. Taste the dressing and adjust with salt and pepper as desired. This refreshing dressing will enhance the salad’s flavors and bring all the ingredients together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooled quinoa and the cranberry-almond mixture to the spinach and feta in the mixing bowl. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring all elements are well incorporated without mashing the quinoa. The colorful contrasts will make your Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad visually appealing.

Step 6: Serve
Transfer the assembled salad to serving bowls, and for an extra touch, sprinkle additional cranberries or sliced almonds on top. This refreshing salad is best served immediately, but it can also be covered and refrigerated for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad

Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse quinoa well to remove saponins, avoiding any bitter taste that can ruin your delightful salad.
Prep for Meal Prep: When storing, keep spinach separate until serving to maintain its crispness for up to three days.
Toast for Flavor: Toasting almonds not only enhances their flavor but adds a lovely crunch—don’t skip this step!
Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or mint can elevate the Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad to new flavor heights.
Mix and Match: Don’t shy away from customizing—experiment with other dried fruits or nuts to find your perfect combination!

What to Serve with Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad

Building a delightful meal around this refreshing salad is a breeze, providing balance with flavors and textures.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy and smoky, grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the salad’s crunch and tartness, adding heartiness to your meal.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and tender, they complement the salad’s nuttiness while providing a comforting warmth that beckons you back for more.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy and aromatic, a slice of garlic bread creates a satisfying contrast with the crisp salad, making every bite a little more indulgent.
Mixed Vegetable Skewers: Colorful veggies grilled to perfection offer fresh flavors that enhance the salad’s vibrant presentation; plus, they make for a fun-to-eat side.
Chickpea Hummus: Creamy and garlicky, hummus is an excellent dip that adds protein and a delightful texture contrast, making it a great starter or spread on toasted pita.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing and zesty, this drink elevates the meal while complementing flavors in your salad wonderfully.
Dark Chocolate Brownies: A decadent end to your meal, these rich treats provide a delightful balance of sweetness that lingers, making for a memorable finish.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For best texture, add the spinach just before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.

Freezer: This salad is not ideal for freezing due to its fresh ingredients. It’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Reheating: If serving leftovers, you can gently toss the salad with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice to bring back some freshness before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad up to 3 days in advance; just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it!

Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad Variations

Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize your salad to match your taste buds!

Nut Substitution: Try walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different flavor and texture surprise. Toasting will add an extra crunch!
Fruit Swap: Replace dried cranberries with apricots or figs to explore new pockets of sweetness. Each fruit offers a unique flavor twist!
Veggie Boost: Add roasted sweet potatoes or chickpeas for an extra dose of heartiness and nutrition. Their warm flavors meld beautifully with the salad.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley or mint can elevate the taste profile significantly. They add a refreshing brightness that vibrates with every bite!
Grain Variation: Incorporate farro or brown rice instead of quinoa for a lovely change in texture, providing a different grain experience altogether.
Zesty Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for those who enjoy a touch of heat. A little spice can invigorate the salad’s charm!
Dairy Free: Omit the feta cheese entirely for a dairy-free version, or swap it for a vegan feta to keep that creamy texture without the dairy.
Dress It Up: Experiment with different dressings, like a balsamic vinaigrette, to discover a new flavor profile. This small change can make all the difference!

Feeling inspired to create? For more vibrant salads, don’t forget to check out my Jello Salad Retro or the mouthwatering Grilled Purple Salad!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad is perfect for busy meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the quinoa and mix the dried cranberries and sliced almonds up to 3 days in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. To maintain the texture and crispiness of the spinach, add it along with the dressing just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply combine all the prepped ingredients in a large bowl, fold them together gently, and savor a wonderfully fresh and nutritious dish that tastes just as delicious as when it was made from scratch!

Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for the Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad?
Absolutely! When choosing quinoa, look for a shiny appearance, and avoid any that has visible dark spots. For dried cranberries, choose plump ones, as they have more moisture and flavor. Fresh spinach should be vibrant green with no wilting or blemishes; it’s best to select it delving deeply into your local market for the freshest varieties!

What’s the best way to store leftovers of my Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad?
To keep your salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be enjoyed within 3 days for maximum freshness. If you’re including spinach, I recommend adding it just before serving to maintain its delightful crunch.

Can I freeze the Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and isn’t ideal for freezing due to its delicate ingredients, particularly the spinach and cranberries. If you anticipate leftovers, consider making just enough for a few meals or store the components separately. However, you can prepare the quinoa ahead and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for a quick salad prep!

I’m not a fan of feta cheese. What are my options?
Very! If feta isn’t to your taste or you want a dairy-free option, try omitting it entirely or substituting it with a vegan cheese alternative. Another delicious option is using avocado for creaminess without any dairy—just mash it and mix it in when you combine the salad ingredients!

What if my quinoa turns out mushy?
No worries! If your quinoa ends up mushy, chances are it was overcooked or used too much water. To remedy this, next time use a 1 to 2 ratio of quinoa to water and keep an eye on it as it cooks. If mushiness occurs, you might consider repurposing it in a soup or stew to incorporate that soft texture into a new dish!

Are there any dietary considerations with this salad for allergies or pets?
Definitely! For those with nut allergies, you can replace the almonds with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch without the allergy concerns. As for pet safety, while most ingredients in the Cranberry Almond Quinoa Salad are safe for pets, it’s best to avoid feeding them anything with added seasonings or feta cheese. Always double-check your ingredients if pets are around!