Description
1 cup fresh cranberries
1/2 cup cooked quinoa
1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey (or sweetener of choice)
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions:
In a small saucepan, cook the cranberries with a tablespoon of water over medium heat until they begin to pop, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, pomegranate seeds, sliced almonds, and crumbled feta cheese.
Add the cooled cranberries to the quinoa mixture and gently toss.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, prepare your ingredients: measure out all components and chop the parsley. In your saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries with one tablespoon of water. Cook over a medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the cranberries soften and pop. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely to prevent wilting the other ingredients. While the cranberries cool, take your large mixing bowl and add the cooked quinoa, pomegranate seeds, sliced almonds, and crumbled feta. Once the cranberries are at room temperature, add them to the bowl. In a separate small bowl or jar, vigorously whisk or shake the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. Finish by garnishing with the chopped fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad is versatile. Serve it as a stunning side dish for roasted chicken, turkey, or grilled salmon. For a festive touch during the holidays, present it in a large hollowed-out pomegranate or a bowl lined with kale leaves. To make it a complete, protein-packed lunch, add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or some shredded rotisserie chicken. It also pairs beautifully with a crusty whole-grain baguette or warm pita bread.
How-to Summary
Quickly cook fresh cranberries until they pop and let cool. Combine cooled cranberries with quinoa, pomegranate seeds, almonds, and feta cheese. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper for the dressing. Toss the salad with the dressing and garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried cranberries instead? Yes, but the flavor profile will change. Soak dried cranberries in hot water for 10 minutes to plump them up, then drain. Note that dried cranberries are often pre-sweetened.
How long does this salad keep in the fridge? Stored in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 2 days. The almonds may soften slightly, so you can add them fresh when serving.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese? Absolutely. Goat cheese crumbles offer a similar tangy profile, or for a dairy-free option, use a vegan feta or simply omit it.
Can I make the quinoa ahead of time? Definitely. Cook a batch of quinoa and let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes assembly even faster.
My dressing is too tart. What can I do? Balance the acidity by adding a little more honey or a pinch of sugar. Taste and adjust until the sweet-tart balance suits your preference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding the warm cranberries directly to the salad, as the heat can wilt the pomegranate seeds and melt the feta. Ensure your quinoa is fully cooled and fluffy, not mushy or clumpy. Do not skip the step of whisking the dressing vigorously; proper emulsification ensures every bite is flavorful. Finally, do not overdress the salad. Start with half the dressing, toss, then add more as needed to prevent a soggy result.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Quinoa Salad is a celebration of textures and flavors, combining tart, sweet, nutty, and savory elements into a nutritious and beautiful dish. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and adapt it to your taste. Enjoy this healthy, colorful, and delicious addition to your meal rotation.
