Quinoa Summer Apple Salad

(Quinoa Summer Apple Salad)

For my first recipe I thought I'd share a summer salad that has become a fast favorite of both Troubadour and myself - Quinoa Summer Apple Salad.  We enjoy recipes made with quinoa for it's texture, nutty taste and also the benefit of it containing a complete protein.

I have seen variations of this recipe on multiple websites and no two seem to be the same.  Some have a curried sauce while others are lighter with a vinaigrette.  Here is my version.  I don't remember which website I originally saw the recipe, but I have made a few changes after trying it initially.

INGREDIENTS:
1-1/2 Cups Unsweetened Apple Juice
1 Cup Quinoa
1/2 to 1 tsp Cinnamon

2 Apples, cored and diced  (I use Gala apples)
1/2 Cup celery, chopped
1/2 Cup Walnuts, chopped
1/2 Cup dried Cranberries
1 - 6 oz container of Soy or Coconut Yogurt
            (any flavor)






DIRECTIONS:

1.  Bring apple juice and quinoa, and cinnamon to a boil in a medium sized pan.  Reduce heat and cover and simmer for approximately 20 minutes or until most of the juice has been absorbed and the quinoa is tender.  Remove from heat, leave covered, and let rest 5 minutes.  Transfer quinoa to a large mixing bowl and cool in refrigerator at least 1 hour.

2.  Add apples, celery, walnuts, and cranberries and mix well.

3.  Fold in yogurt and serve.

(mixed salad prior to adding yogurt)

I have found that this is even better tasting on the second day and would make a great breakfast as well.

If you are looking to make a non-vegan version you can substitute Greek yogurt although you may need 8 oz as it is thicker. 

 I've also seen this recipe using Chinese Five Spice or ginger in place of the cinnamon.  Although I haven't tried it, it sounds intriguing.

- Au Revoir

" As a child my family's menu consisted of two things:  take it or leave it." - Buddy Hackett