Apple Quinoa Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

If there’s one stereotype I’m on a mission to debunk, it’s the notion that salads are the poster child for boring and sad meals. We’ve all had that sad iceberg lettuce salad with a few shredded carrots and a tomato. It’s not really satisfying and it definitely doesn’t make you HAPPY. So, I’d like to welcome you to my “NOT Sad Salad Series!” And welcome to this recipe: Vegan Apple Quinoa Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette. This salad has a symphony of textures and nutritional benefits.

I want to shake up the salad world with creations that make you smile, and happy! I like to combine a variety of flavors and textures, making salads fun and always dressed with a homemade dressing. In this salad series you can always expect a salad that is easy to make that incorporates many nutritional elements that work together. You’ll be getting a hefty serving of veggies (some fruits and nuts likely as well!), plant-based protein, and a tasty homemade dressing.

Massaging Kale

Kale, the superstar green of this dish and base of this salad, is not just a trendy leaf. It’s a nutritional powerhouse packed with Vitamins A, K, C, and minerals like calcium and iron. Massaging kale is the secret to turning its tough leaves into tender bites. This makes it more palatable and easier to digest. You massage kale by putting a pinch of salt, squeeze of lemon, or drizzle of olive oil on top. Then you use your hands and give it a massage!

Quinoa, Beans, and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Using kale as the base allows for this salad to hold in the fridge for a few days so it's a great one to meal prep for the week! I don't typically use quinoa as my grain of choice, however, I love the softness the quinoa adds to this salad and contrasts the texture of the nuts and seeds! The beans pack some protein and are well seasoned by the dressing and fresh rosemary!

The balsamic vinaigrette is a great recipe to have in your back pocket. It can be used on so many salads! I hope you enjoy!

Apple Quinoa Kale Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

This salad uses cannellini beans, nuts, golden raisins, quinoa, rosemary, and apples as the toppings to a kale base!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Salad

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

• 1 bunch of kale chopped
• 1 15 oz can of cannellini beans
• ¾ cup uncooked quinoa
• 1 ½ cups water for quinoa
• 1 apple diced
• ¼ cup golden raisins or cranberries
• ½ cup mixed nuts I used walnuts, pistachios, and pecans
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
• handful of fresh rosemary

Balsamic Vinaigrette

• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2-3 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 garlic clove
• 2 teaspoon dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• salt/pepper

Instructions

 

• Cook your quinoa as described on package by combining your quinoa and water
• Meanwhile dice your apples and chop your kale. Mix all of your ingredients together to create the dressing
• Combine all ingredients with the kale and dress then toss! Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy! Let me know in the comments below!

Also, if you like this recipe, be sure to check out my hearty salad with a ginger vinaigrette!