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cranberry orange spinach quinoa salad recipe

Cranberry Orange Spinach Quinoa Salad

Avatar photoMarla Jennings
A vibrant and refreshing salad combining the sweetness of cranberries and oranges with the earthy flavor of quinoa and fresh spinach.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Medium Saucepan
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 Large mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

Salad

  • 1 cup quinoa rinsed
  • 2 cups water
  • 4 cups fresh spinach washed and dried
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 oranges peeled and segmented

Cranberry Orange Vinaigrette

  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Combine quinoa and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, spinach, cranberries, and orange segments. Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

Serving

  • Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Serve immediately as a light meal or as a side dish to your favorite mains.

Storage

  • Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy chilled or bring to room temperature before serving.

Notes

Pro Tips: Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural bitterness. For extra flavor, toast the quinoa lightly before boiling.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different flavor profile. Use maple syrup in place of honey for a vegan option.
How to Serve: Serve this salad as a refreshing starter or pair it with grilled meats for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Keep the salad fresh by storing it in the refrigerator and dressing it just before serving.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the quinoa and vinaigrette ahead of time and combine them with fresh ingredients right before serving.
Keyword cranberry orange spinach quinoa salad, healthy quinoa salad, quinoa spinach salad