In the crisp embrace of autumn, there’s something magical about the flavors that come alive on your plate. Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad captures all that warmth, combining vibrant seasonal ingredients into a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Picture roasted butternut squash dancing with tart cranberries, all while quinoa provides a nutty backdrop. This salad doesn’t just taste good; it smells divine too, with spices wafting through your kitchen like an inviting fall breeze.
As I prepared this delightful dish for the first time, memories flooded back of family gatherings, laughter ringing in the air as we shared stories over hearty meals. The anticipation of digging into a bowl of this salad was palpable—perfect for holiday dinners or simple weeknight meals. Trust me when I say, each bite is an explosion of flavor that you’ll want to keep coming back to throughout the season.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor that tantalizes the taste buds
- Its colorful presentation makes it a visual feast at any gathering
- You can easily adjust ingredients based on personal preferences or what you have available in your pantry
- Serve it warm or cold; it’s versatile enough for any occasion!
Ingredients for Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Quinoa: Use tri-color quinoa for added visual appeal and a delightful nutty flavor.
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Butternut Squash: Roasted until tender, this sweet vegetable enhances the salad’s autumn vibe.
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Dried Cranberries: Their tartness balances beautifully with the sweetness of squash and adds chewy texture.
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Spinach: Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and a boost of nutrients to your cozy salad.
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Pecans: Toasted pecans provide crunch and depth, making every bite satisfying.
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Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tang, elevating the flavor profile wonderfully.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
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Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a sweet-tart zing that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad
Preparing this Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad is as enjoyable as eating it!
Start by roasting the squash. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut butternut squash into cubes, toss them in olive oil, sprinkle salt and pepper generously, then place them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes until they are golden brown and tender.
While your squash works its magic in the oven, rinse one cup of quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. Combine it with two cups of water or vegetable broth in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil before reducing to low heat; cover and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
When both components are cooked and cooled slightly, it’s time to assemble! In a large bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa and roasted squash. Add fresh spinach leaves, dried cranberries for sweetness, and toasted pecans for that satisfying crunch.
Next comes the flavor explosion! Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over everything while gently tossing to combine. Crumble feta cheese generously over the top because more cheese is always better!
Finally, give your salad a taste test—adjust seasoning if needed with salt or pepper because no one likes bland food! Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for an hour to meld flavors even more.
Now you have created a Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad that not only warms your belly but also nourishes your soul! Enjoy every flavorful bite while wrapped up in your favorite sweater as you embrace everything this season has to offer.
You Must Know
- This cozy fall harvest quinoa salad offers more than just flavor; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- Packed with seasonal ingredients, it’s as visually stunning as it is delicious
- Perfect for potlucks or enjoying solo on a chilly day, this salad is versatile and satisfying
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions. While that simmers, roast your favorite fall veggies like sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts until tender. Toss everything together with a zesty dressing for the ultimate cozy experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this cozy fall harvest quinoa salad! Swap out quinoa for farro or add nuts for crunch. You can also try different dressings or sprinkle feta cheese on top to elevate the flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cozy fall harvest quinoa salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For reheating, simply warm it in the microwave or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always rinse your quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness
- Roast veggies until slightly caramelized for added sweetness
- Don’t skip the dressing; it brings all the flavors together beautifully
Sharing this cozy fall harvest quinoa salad recipe reminds me of a chilly evening when friends gathered around my dining table, each bite sparking laughter and warmth.
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad?
To prepare a delicious Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad, you will need cooked quinoa, roasted butternut squash, cranberries, walnuts, and spinach. For the dressing, use olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables or protein sources like chickpeas or feta cheese to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
How long does it take to make Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad?
Making Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad typically takes about 30 minutes. This includes time for cooking the quinoa (approximately 15 minutes) and roasting the butternut squash (around 20-25 minutes). Prep time for chopping vegetables can vary but usually adds another 10-15 minutes. The overall process is quick and perfect for busy fall days.
Can I store Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad in the fridge?
Yes, you can store Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It remains fresh for up to four days. If you plan to make it ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the texture of the salad ingredients.
Is Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for lunches or dinners. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it even more delicious after a day or two in the fridge.
Conclusion for Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad:
In conclusion, Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad is a nutritious and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of autumn. With its delightful combination of roasted vegetables, crunchy nuts, and a tangy dressing, this salad is perfect as a main dish or side. Preparing it is quick and easy, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Enjoy this vibrant salad as you celebrate the flavors of fall!

Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Cozy Fall Harvest Quinoa Salad is a delightful blend of seasonal flavors that celebrate autumn. This vibrant dish features roasted butternut squash, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, all tossed with fluffy quinoa and fresh spinach. Drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing and topped with creamy feta cheese, this salad offers a warm, comforting experience perfect for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings. Enjoy every bite as it nourishes both body and soul.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tri-color quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 cups butternut squash (cubed)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes until tender.
- Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa with roasted squash, spinach, cranberries, and pecans.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Toss gently to combine.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm or chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - Substitute farro for quinoa or add chickpeas for extra protein. - Adjust ingredients based on your pantry items or personal preferences. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.