on Oct 27, 2021, Updated May 09, 2024 If you’re not a quinoa fan, this recipe will change your mind. I used to be put off by the smell of quinoa, but after toying with it in the kitchen, I can now say I am a quinoa lover, thanks to this salad and a small trick that changed everything (check out Nonna’s Tip, below). And if you do love quinoa, then be sure to check out my recipe for the famous Jennifer Aniston Salad.
Why You’ll Love Cranberry Quinoa Salad
Bright, tart, herbaceous, colorful, and filling: this recipe is everything I want in a salad. Cucumbers 🥒 add crunch, a mix of fresh herbs lends flavor, crumbled soft cheese add richness, and lemon juice 🍋 and dried cranberries bring a pleasant tartness. And, of course, a big heaping of cooked quinoa brings everything together for a well-balanced meal, that holds up beautifully over time in the fridge. Make this ahead of time for entertaining or batch-cook this for meal prep.
How to Prepare Cranberry Quinoa Salad
🚿 Rinse the quinoa really well under running water for at least 3 to 5 minutes. 🫕 Add to a pot and combine with 2 cups of water and a big pinch of salt. Then, bring to a boil, lower to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 14 minutes, until fluffy. 🥗 In a large bowl, add the quinoa, mint, parsley, cucumber, juice of 1 lemon, olive oil, and cranberries. Season to taste with salt and stir well. 🧀 Top off with cheese and nuts, if using, and enjoy!
Variations and Substitutions for Cranberry Quinoa Salad
Best Served With
This salad is a meal on its own, but you can bulk it up by pairing it with grilled, cubed chicken or thinly pounded chicken breasts. I love the combination of a hearty salad and grilled salmon skewers. 🥗🐟 This makes a nice entertaining dish all year long. I would pair it with a rich cheesy appetizer, like baked brie. Soup and salad is a classic combo; try my hidden veggie chicken noodle soup. 🍜
Common Questions
