This Fruit & Almond Quinoa with Apple Vinaigrette offered a refreshing change from our usual dinners. Quick and simple enough for a weeknight, it’s a healthy option that the whole family could enjoy.
Fruit and Almond Quinoa with Apple Vinaigrette
Brian and I decided to be more intentional about what we eat. I handle the grocery shopping, meal planning, and most of the cooking, so making healthier choices naturally falls to me — and I don’t mind. Brian is supportive in theory, though he’s sometimes hesitant when it comes to actually changing routines. It’s easy to talk about healthier meals; putting them into practice is the harder part.
I’ll admit my meat-loving family wasn’t thrilled when I announced we were having quinoa for dinner. I kept having to explain what it is and how to pronounce it (keen-wah). Even after explaining that quinoa is a nutritious, gluten-free complete protein, they were skeptical. Brian asked more than once, “so there’s no meat in this?” and the answer was, “nope — no meat.”
What is Quinoa?
Quinoa is a complete protein packed with nutrients. It’s a good source of fiber and calcium, naturally gluten-free, and easy to digest. Even with its many benefits, I knew I had to present it in a way that would appeal to my family. Sometimes trying something new takes a little encouragement — and a tasty dressing doesn’t hurt.
I grew up exposed to many different foods, so I’m usually willing to try just about anything at least once. Some people find it harder to step outside their comfort zone — Brian included — and that’s okay. It just means I get to be creative in the kitchen. Sometimes I don’t even answer all his questions before he takes a bite, and occasionally he’s surprised to find he likes something he thought he wouldn’t.
With a little persuasion, the family tried the quinoa and decided it wasn’t bad at all. They’re not giving up meat entirely, but swapping one or two meals a week for healthier options is a step in the right direction. Expect some grumbles for a while, but I’ll take them if it means small, sustainable changes toward better eating.
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)
4 servings
Fruit & Almond Quinoa with Apple Vinaigrette
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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 cook over medium-low heat for 10–15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
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Transfer the quinoa to a medium bowl. Add the chopped apples, halved grapes, raisins, and slivered almonds. Mix gently to combine and set aside.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the apple juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified. Pour over the quinoa and fruit mixture and toss gently. Serve immediately or chill and serve cold.
Notes
- If you’re not a fan of quinoa, couscous makes a good substitute.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 75g,
Protein: 10g,
Fat: 17g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
Originally published on February 8, 2014. Updated on April 25, 2021.