When it comes to healthy, delicious, and versatile meals, quinoa salads are a great option. Quinoa, a protein-rich grain, pairs perfectly with the sweetness of dried cranberries in a variety of tasty combinations. From Mediterranean-inspired dishes to sweet and tangy concoctions, there’s something for everyone in this list of 20 mouthwatering quinoa salad recipes featuring dried cranberries. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a nutritious dinner, these salads are sure to please. In this article, we’ll explore the wonderful world of quinoa and dried cranberry pairings, with recipes that showcase the best of both worlds.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Feta
This vibrant quinoa salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with sweet and tangy notes from dried cranberries and crumbled feta cheese. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and dried cranberries.
3. Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and add to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano, if desired.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Almonds
A nutrient-packed salad that combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the nutty taste of quinoa, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa and spinach leaves.
2. Add dried cranberries and almonds; toss gently to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Citrus Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Avocado
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the brightness of citrus, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and the creaminess of avocado. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and cook according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange and grapefruit juices.
3. Add cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, diced avocado, and chopped mint leaves to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries
This hearty quinoa salad combines roasted vegetables with the natural sweetness of dried cranberries, creating a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
3. Toss sweet potato, bell pepper, zucchini, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. Stir in roasted vegetables and dried cranberries.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Apple Walnut Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries
This hearty salad combines the warmth of quinoa, the crunch of walnuts, and the sweetness of dried cranberries with crisp apple slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced apple, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and honey; season with salt to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (quinoa cooking time)
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Goat Cheese
This refreshing salad combines nutty quinoa with sweet dried cranberries, tangy goat cheese, and a hint of fresh herbs. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped parsley, crumbled goat cheese, and dried cranberries.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Pour over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Chickpeas
This flavorful salad combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with the warmth of curry, sweet dried cranberries, and protein-rich chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and cook according to package instructions using the 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat curry powder over medium heat for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add cooked quinoa to the curry mixture and stir to combine.
4. In a large bowl, combine quinoa mixture, chickpeas, and dried cranberries.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Pumpkin Seeds
A nutritious and flavorful salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this quinoa recipe combines the nutty goodness of pumpkin seeds with the sweetness of dried cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, and dried cranberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– 10 minutes (quinoa cooking time)
– 5 minutes (assembly and dressing)
Kale and Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Lemon Vinaigrette
This salad combines the earthy sweetness of kale, the nutty flavor of quinoa, and the tanginess of lemon vinaigrette, topped with chewy dried cranberries. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, kale, and dried cranberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparing quinoa and washing kale)
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Roasted Sweet Potatoes
This quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of roasted sweet potatoes with the tartness of dried cranberries, all wrapped up in a fluffy quinoa bowl. Perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, dried cranberries, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (includes roasting sweet potatoes)
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Fresh Herbs
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of cooked quinoa with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy fresh herbs, and a hint of tangy lemon juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or vegetable broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, chopped parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Grilled Chicken
This hearty quinoa salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring grilled chicken, sweet dried cranberries, and tangy feta cheese. A great option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, mixed greens, dried cranberries, and feta cheese.
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad mixture.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Balsamic Glaze
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Balsamic Glaze: A flavorful and nutritious salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Toasted Pecans
A flavorful and nutritious salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this quinoa bowl combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with sweet dried cranberries and crunchy toasted pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 cup toasted pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, parsley, and scallions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle toasted pecans on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (quinoa cooking time varies depending on package instructions)
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Honey Mustard Dressing
This quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with sweet and tangy dried cranberries, all tied together with a honey mustard dressing. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons honey mustard dressing (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Honey Mustard Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey mustard dressing ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (quinoa cooking time)
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
3. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together dried cranberries and apple cider vinegar.
5. Combine cooked quinoa, roasted Brussels sprouts, and cranberry mixture in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Arugula
This refreshing quinoa salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of nutty quinoa, tangy arugula, and sweet dried cranberries creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, arugula leaves, and dried cranberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top (if using).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Sunflower Seeds
This quinoa salad is a nutritious and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion. With the combination of protein-rich quinoa, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds, this recipe is a great way to add some color and excitement to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, parsley, and sunflower seeds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Pour dressing over quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Orange Zest
This refreshing quinoa salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next dinner party. The sweetness of the dried cranberries pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the orange zest, making this a delicious and nutritious option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, orange juice, olive oil, and grated orange zest. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Tahini Dressing
This quinoa salad is a flavorful and nutritious combination of cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, and crunchy vegetables, all tied together with a creamy tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, red bell pepper, cucumber, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for healthy and delicious quinoa salad recipes? You’re in luck! This article features 20 mouth-watering quinoa salads that incorporate dried cranberries, a tasty and nutritious twist. From Mediterranean-inspired creations to citrusy delights, there’s something for everyone. Discover how quinoa pairs with feta, almonds, avocado, goat cheese, and more. Whether you’re a vegetarian or looking for protein-packed options with grilled chicken, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body. Try one (or two, or three…) today!
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