Apple Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad: A Nutritious & Flavorful Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet potatoes and apples.

This apple sweet potato quinoa salad brings together the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, the crispness of fresh apples, and the nutty flavor of quinoa.

It’s not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful blend of textures and tastes that makes every bite exciting.

Ingredients

To create my vibrant apple sweet potato quinoa salad, I gather a mix of fresh ingredients and pantry essentials that bring flavor and nutrition together harmoniously.

Fresh Ingredients

• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 large apple, cored and diced (I prefer a tart variety like Granny Smith)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa (I often use tri-color quinoa for added visual appeal)
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped green onion
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional for a touch of sweetness)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for a vegan option)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious apple sweet potato quinoa salad. Each step is designed to ensure flawless preparation and a perfect blend of flavors.

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and peel 2 medium sweet potatoes. Cut them into 1-inch cubes for even roasting.
3. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water for about 30 seconds to remove any bitterness. Drain well.
4. Dice 1 red bell pepper into small pieces.
5. Chop 1 cup of fresh parsley and slice 2 green onions, separating the white and green parts.
6. Core and chop 2 tart apples into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for extra texture.
7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Assemble

Now it’s time to bring all the components together for my delicious apple sweet potato quinoa salad. Follow these steps to create a vibrant and flavorful dish.

1. Combine the Quinoa and Veggies: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked quinoa. Next, toss in the roasted sweet potatoes, diced red bell pepper, and chopped parsley. These ingredients create a beautiful base with a mix of colors and textures.
2. Add the Apples: Gently fold in the sliced apples. Their crispness adds a fresh crunch to the salad, which complements the earthiness of the sweet potatoes perfectly.
3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. This dressing will enhance the flavors of the salad and add a delightful zing.
4. Combine the Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture. Use a spatula to gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to mush the sweet potatoes or apples.
5. Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle dried cranberries on top for an extra touch of sweetness. This also adds a lovely pop of color. Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Dressing

A delicious dressing can elevate the flavors of the apple sweet potato quinoa salad and tie everything together.

Here’s how to create a simple yet flavorful dressing that perfectly complements the dish.

Ingredients for Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Mixing the Dressing

In a small bowl, I start by adding the olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Then, I whisk them together until well combined. Next, I add in the honey or maple syrup along with the ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.

I continue to whisk until the dressing becomes smooth and all ingredients are blended together.

The result should be a creamy, slightly tangy dressing that balances the sweetness of the salad.

Once mixed, I pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure every bite is coated.

Conclusion

I can’t recommend the apple sweet potato quinoa salad enough. It’s such a delightful dish that brings together so many wonderful flavors and textures.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy side or a light meal, this salad fits the bill perfectly.

The combination of roasted sweet potatoes and crisp apples creates a harmony that’s hard to resist.

Plus, the dressing adds just the right touch to elevate the entire experience. I love that it’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for any gathering.

So why not give it a try? It’s a fantastic way to enjoy wholesome ingredients while treating your taste buds to something special. Happy cooking!

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