This Fruit & Almond Quinoa with Apple Vinaigrette was a pleasant change from our usual dinners. Quick and easy for a weeknight, it’s nutritious and satisfying.
Fruit and Almond Quinoa with Apple Vinaigrette
Brian and I talked about making more conscious choices about what we eat. Since I handle grocery shopping, meal planning and cooking, the change naturally fell to me — and I don’t mind. Brian is enthusiastic in words but sometimes hesitant when it comes time to actually change habits. Saying you’ll eat better is easy; sticking to it takes more effort.
I’ll admit my meat-loving family wasn’t thrilled when I announced we were having quinoa for dinner. I even had to explain what quinoa is and how to pronounce it (keen-wah). My family’s reaction ranged from curiosity to skepticism. Brian kept asking, “So there’s no meat in this?” And no — this dish is meat-free.
What is Quinoa?
Quinoa is a complete protein and packed with nutrients. It’s a good source of fiber and calcium, naturally gluten-free, and easy to digest. No matter how many health benefits I listed, my family remained doubtful — but I was determined to give it a fair try.
I grew up exposed to lots of different foods, some of which might make others squeamish. I’ll usually try anything once. For some people, stepping outside their comfort zone is hard; Brian is one of them. That’s fine — it just means I have to be creative or occasionally avoid answering the “what’s this?” questions until after they try it. Sometimes people are surprised to discover they actually like something they expected not to.
After a little reluctance, my family tried this quinoa and said it wasn’t bad. They probably won’t give up meat entirely, and that’s not the goal. Swapping in healthier options a few times a week is a small, manageable step toward better eating, even if there are a few grumbles along the way.
Other recipes you may enjoy
- Black Bean & Corn Enchilada Quinoa Casserole
- Peach & Raspberry Chicken Salad with Peach Vinaigrette
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- BBQ Chicken Quinoa Skillet Dinner
- Quinoa with Broccoli (and feta)
Fruit & Almond Quinoa with Apple Vinaigrette
Rate
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 small red apple, cored and chopped
- 1 small green apple, cored and chopped
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1 cup green grapes, halved
- ½ cup raisins
- ½ cup slivered almonds, 2 oz.
For the dressing
- ¼ cup apple juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Pinch salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
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Rinse the quinoa. In a medium saucepan, bring the water and quinoa to a boil. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 10–15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff the quinoa with a fork.
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Transfer the quinoa to a medium bowl. Gently stir in the apples, grapes, raisins and slivered almonds. Set aside.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the apple juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper and olive oil until blended. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and fruit mixture and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or chill and serve cold.
Notes
- If you prefer, substitute couscous for the quinoa.
Nutrition
,
Carbohydrates: 75g
,
Protein: 10g
,
Fat: 17g
,
Fiber: 8g
,
Sugar: 26g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
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Originally published on February 8, 2014. Updated on April 25, 2021.