Quinoa and Cranberry Fall Salad Dinner Recipe
Let’s face it, most salads are just “meh,” right? But the Quinoa and Cranberry Fall Salad? A whole different story. Packed with hearty quinoa, tangy cranberries, and a burst of flavor from autumn spices, this salad takes things to a new level. It’s fresh, it’s filling, and it won’t make you feel like you’re nibbling on cardboard. Perfect as a side dish or even a main course for those nights you want something light but still satisfying. Get ready for the fall vibes in every bite. Who knew healthy could actually taste this good?
Quinoa and Cranberry Fall Salad Dinner Recipe
A delicious and filling fall salad with quinoa, cranberries, roasted vegetables, and a sweet vinaigrette—perfect for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup roasted butternut squash cubed
- 1/2 cup roasted Brussels sprouts halved
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup feta cheese optional
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions, then set aside to cool.
- Roast butternut squash and Brussels sprouts at 400°F for 20 minutes, turning halfway.
- In a large salad bowl, combine quinoa, cranberries, roasted squash, Brussels sprouts, and pecans.
- Whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Top with feta cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Vitamin A: 30%
- Vitamin C: 15%
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 10%
- Potassium: 8%
Additional Notes/Tips
- Add grilled chicken for a more substantial meal.
- Try swapping pecans with walnuts for a different flavor.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta and cheese.
- Make sure to let quinoa cool before mixing it into the salad to keep it fresh.
- Adjust the dressing sweetness with more or less maple syrup depending on preference.
