Name: Fall Quinoa Salad with Butternut Squash and Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked quinoa; 2 cups water; 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 large apple, chopped; 1/3 cup dried cranberries; 1/3 cup pecans, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing); 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love Fall Quinoa Salad with Butternut Squash and Apples Recipe

This salad highlights some of the best ingredients fall has to offer. The roasted butternut squash provides natural sweetness and warmth, while the crisp apples add a refreshing crunch. Quinoa, a nutrient-rich grain, serves as the base, offering both protein and fiber to keep you satisfied. The addition of nuts like pecans or walnuts and dried cranberries brings in delightful texture and a hint of extra sweetness.

Not only is this salad a seasonal delight, but it’s also versatile, gluten-free, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a dish to bring to a potluck or holiday gathering, this salad fits the bill perfectly.

Key Ingredients for the Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious salad:

Quinoa
Butternut squash, peeled and cubed
Apples, diced
Olive oil
Maple syrup
Apple cider vinegar
Dijon mustard
Cinnamon
Salt and black pepper
Pecans or walnuts (or your favorite nuts)
Dried cranberries
Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme

These ingredients work together to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Roasting the butternut squash brings out its sweetness, while the apples add a crunchy contrast. The quinoa serves as a hearty base, making the salad filling without being heavy.

Instructions for Making the Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Fall Quinoa Salad:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Roast the butternut squash. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Spread the squash evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast it for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Cook the quinoa. While the squash is roasting, cook the quinoa according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and allow it to cool.
Make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This will give the salad a tangy-sweet flavor that complements the roasted squash and apples.
Assemble the salad. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted butternut squash, diced apples, dried cranberries, and chopped nuts.
Dress the salad. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Garnish and serve. Top the salad with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme for an added burst of freshness. You can serve the salad slightly warm, at room temperature, or even chilled.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can serve 4 to 6 people as a main dish or a side dish. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick yet flavorful option for any meal.

For added protein, you can stir in roasted chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese, or grilled chicken. If you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the cheese and nuts, or replace them with a lighter crunch like sliced almonds or sunflower seeds. The salad is also great as part of a larger spread, especially for holiday gatherings.

Variations

One of the best things about this salad is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have available or your taste preferences:

Grains: If you prefer, you can substitute the quinoa with farro, couscous, or brown rice.
Nuts: Instead of pecans or walnuts, try using slivered almonds, cashews, or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.
Fruit: If apples aren’t your favorite, pears can make a delicious alternative with a similar texture and sweetness. You can also try adding pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of color and flavor.
Greens: To add some leafy greens, you can toss in some baby spinach, arugula, or mixed greens.
Herbs: Try using different fresh herbs like rosemary or sage, which complement the flavors of fall wonderfully.

Storage and Reheating

This salad is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors meld together over time. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best texture, it’s a good idea to add the fresh herbs and nuts just before serving.

If you prefer the salad warm, you can reheat it in the microwave for 30-60 seconds. However, note that the apples may soften slightly when reheated, so it’s best to enjoy it soon after assembling.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this salad can be made a day ahead of time, which allows the flavors to develop. Just store it in the fridge and add fresh herbs and nuts right before serving.

Is this salad served warm or cold?

You can enjoy this salad at room temperature, chilled, or slightly warmed. It’s versatile and delicious at any temperature.

Can I use pre-cooked quinoa?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked quinoa for convenience. Just make sure it is cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients.

What type of apples work best for this salad?

Crisp apple varieties such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work wonderfully in this salad, as they maintain their texture and offer a nice balance of sweetness.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as written, and you can also keep it nut-free if needed by skipping the nuts or substituting them with seeds.

How do I keep the apples from browning?

To prevent the apples from browning, simply toss them in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. This will help preserve their freshness and color.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the apples and roasted squash may become mushy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.

What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted chicken, grilled tofu, or as part of a larger spread for a holiday meal. It’s also great on its own for a light yet filling meal.

Conclusion

This Fall Quinoa Salad with Butternut Squash and Apples is the perfect dish to enjoy the flavors of the season. With its combination of sweet, savory, and tangy elements, it’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes, with vibrant colors and textures. Whether you serve it as a main course or as a side, it’s a nourishing, delicious way to celebrate fall and bring the season’s best produce to your table.