BY SHALEEN DESTEFANO
The holidays are over, which means fewer rich meals, sweet treats, and a wonky schedule that’s anything but routine, to throw us off our game. About now, most of us find ourselves craving a little balance. This nutrient-packed, flavor-forward quinoa salad is the perfect place to start. It’s hearty enough to keep you full, fresh enough to feel like a reset, and bright enough to ease you back into nourishing habits without sacrificing taste. With crisp apples, peppery arugula, creamy feta, and a zesty maple-mustard dressing, this bowl brings your body and your energy right back to center.
Maple Mustard Dressing
1/3 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Quinoa Salad
3 cups fresh arugula
2 cups cooked quinoa
1 1/2 cups chopped apples (Honeycrisp)
1 cup sliced cucumbers
1/2 cup cubed feta cheese
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, top the cooked quinoa with the arugula, apples, cucumbers, feta, and walnuts. Toss until evenly mixed. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste.
Dress and serve: Drizzle with the maple mustard dressing and toss again until everything is well coated.
Serve immediately and enjoy!