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Fall harvest quinoa salad - the image is a close-up of a bowl of salad. the salad is made up of quinoa, butternut squash, cranberries, and pecans. the quinoa is a light brown color and appears to be seasoned with herbs and spices. the butternuts are cut into small cubes and are arranged in a circular pattern. the cranberries are a deep red color and are scattered throughout the salad, adding a pop of color to the dish. there are also some green leaves and nuts scattered throughout, adding texture and depth to the image. the bowl is made of dark brown ceramic and is sitting on a white marble countertop.

Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad


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  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

A vibrant and nutritious Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad featuring roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and a maple Dijon vinaigrette. Perfect for a seasonal side or a light main dish.


Ingredients

Scale

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water
2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
3 cups baby spinach, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
While the quinoa cooks, place the diced butternut squash on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
Roast the butternut squash in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to make the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, chopped baby spinach, parsley, and green onions.
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days. If chilled, allow the salad to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes