Cinnamon Maple Quinoa with Roasted Apples, Dried Fruit, and Toasted Almonds
Try this recipe for Cinnamon Maple Quinoa with Roasted Apples, Dried Fruit, and Toasted Almonds.
Try this recipe for Cinnamon Maple Quinoa with Roasted Apples, Dried Fruit, and Toasted Almonds.
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed and drained
- 2 apples (i like fujis or pink ladies a granny smith would work here, too)
- 1/4-3/8 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2-3 tablespoons sliced almonds toasted
- 2-3 teaspoons maple syrup grade b is best
- 1/4 cup dried apricots chopped into 1/4-inch pieces
- Carbohydrate 12.0258020574307 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 2.95402446513297 g
- Fiber 1.57214706624394 g
- Protein 0.406252105860273 g
- Saturated Fat 0.398896134607869 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (139g)
- Sodium 6.13268385344267 mg
- Sugar 10.4536549911868 g
- Trans Fat 0.141261139995196 g
- Calories 70 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Peel, core and chop the apples into 1/4-inch pieces and place on a cookie sheet.
- Drizzle with 1/2 Tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt over the apples. Mix them with your hands until the apples are coated with oil.
- Roast them in the oven for 20-25 minutes. They’re done when they’re barely tender and the edges have begun to brown.
- Remove from oven and add to a large bowl with the dried cranberries and apricots.
- Toast the almonds in small saucepan over low-medium heat until fragrant and very light brown. Spread on a paper towel on the counter to cool.
- Make the quinoa: rinse and drain the quinoa. Toast the quinoa in a dry, medium saucepan, over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until you begin to hear popping sounds and the nutty aroma is released.
- Add the water, cinnamon stick, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons of maple syrup and 1 Tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Bring to a boil and then turn the heat down, simmering until the water has been absorbed; about 20 minutes.
- When the quinoa has finished cooking, remove the cinnamon stick and add the quinoa to the bowl with the fruit, stirring with a rubber spatula.
- Add the remaining 1 Tablespoon of olive oil and taste for seasoning (you may opt to add 1 more teaspoon of maple syrup).
- Serve in a bowl and top the quinoa mixture with the toasted almonds.
A Busy Mom's Delight: Cinnamon Maple Quinoa with Roasted Apples
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind of early mornings, school runs, deadlines, and dinner preparations. Finding time for healthy, delicious meals can often feel impossible. But what if I told you there's a recipe that's both nutritious and surprisingly quick to make? This Cinnamon Maple Quinoa with Roasted Apples, Dried Fruit, and Toasted Almonds is my go-to weeknight dinner – and it's a lifesaver!
This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it's about flavor. The sweetness of the roasted apples perfectly complements the nutty quinoa, while the dried cranberries and apricots add a burst of tartness. The toasted almonds provide a satisfying crunch, creating a symphony of textures in every bite. It's a dish that truly satisfies, leaving you feeling energized and nourished, without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why this recipe works for busy moms:
- Prep-ahead potential: You can roast the apples and toast the almonds ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. This significantly reduces cooking time on busy weeknights.
- One-pan wonder (mostly): While there are a few separate steps, the majority of the cooking happens in one pan, minimizing cleanup.
- Nutrient-packed: Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Apples are rich in fiber, and the dried fruit provides antioxidants. This dish is a powerhouse of nutrients, fueling you and your family throughout the day.
- Adaptable: Feel free to substitute your favorite dried fruits or nuts. If you're short on time, you can even skip the roasting step and use store-bought applesauce instead. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond the weeknight meal:
This recipe is also perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch on the weekend and enjoy it for lunches throughout the week. It's also a great option for potlucks or gatherings. The beautiful colors and enticing aroma will surely impress your guests. I've even packed it in individual containers for school lunches - it's a delicious and healthy alternative to processed snacks.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Experiment with different spices, add a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a dash of nutmeg. Let your taste buds be your guide! This isn't just a recipe; it's a testament to the fact that healthy, delicious, and convenient meals are entirely achievable, even amidst the chaos of a busy life.
So, the next time you find yourself staring at the clock, wondering what to make for dinner, remember this recipe. It's more than just a meal; it’s a moment of calm amidst the storm, a chance to nourish yourself and your family with wholesome goodness, without sacrificing precious time or energy. Enjoy!
