Honey Mustard Quinoa Apple Salad with Crispy Shallots
A refreshing and nutrient-packed salad combining protein-rich quinoa, crisp apples, a sweet and tangy honey mustard dressing, and crunchy fried shallots for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 medium apple (Honeycrisp or Gala), cored and diced
- 0.5 cup celery, thinly sliced
- 0.25 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for quinoa)
- 0.25 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2-3 shallots, thinly sliced for frying
- enough oil for frying shallots
Instructions
- Bring quinoa and water or vegetable broth to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with fork, stir in olive oil, and let cool.
- Heat oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Fry thinly sliced shallots until golden and crispy, about 4–5 minutes. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, diced apples, sliced celery, dried cranberries or raisins, and chopped parsley.
- Pour dressing over salad and gently toss to combine.
- Sprinkle crispy shallots over the top just before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition
Serving: 1personCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 8gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 350mgFiber: 6gSugar: 15g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!