Description
A vibrant and festive Pomegranate Arugula Quinoa Salad featuring a mix of tangy pomegranate seeds, fresh arugula, crisp Gala apples, crunchy walnuts, creamy feta, and sweet dried cranberries, all tossed in a zesty balsamic Dijon dressing. Perfect for a healthy lunch or as a colorful side dish during holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1 cup dry quinoa
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 2 cups roughly chopped baby arugula
- 1 Gala apple, cored and chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 3/4 cup feta, crumbled
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Dressing
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then cook it according to the package directions, usually simmering in water for about 15-20 minutes until the grains are tender. Set aside to cool completely.
- Make Dressing: In a mason jar, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the dressing is well emulsified.
- Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, add the cooled quinoa, pomegranate seeds, chopped arugula, chopped Gala apple, walnuts, crumbled feta, and dried cranberries. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 45 minutes or up to overnight to allow flavors to meld. Give the salad a quick toss before serving.
Notes
- This salad is perfect for holiday gatherings with its festive colors and combination of flavors.
- Quinoa can be cooked a day in advance to save time during meal prep.
- Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
- Feta can be replaced with goat cheese or left out for a dairy-free version.
- For added sweetness, drizzle a bit of honey into the dressing if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 355 kcal
- Sugar: 14.7 g
- Sodium: 183.5 mg
- Fat: 23.6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18.8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32.3 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6.7 g
- Cholesterol: 12.5 mg
