Chilled Cinnamon Apple Quinoa Delight
Start your day with a wholesome twist on breakfast by enjoying this Chilled Cinnamon Apple Quinoa Delight. Inspired by a delightful sample from Trader Joe's, this recipe transforms traditional quinoa into a refreshing and nutritious breakfast option. Packed with sweet apples, chewy cranberries, and crunchy pecans, all intertwined with subtle notes of cinnamon, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy it cold, topped with creamy vanilla yogurt for a simple yet satisfying meal that is sure to keep you energized throughout the morning. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy mornings!
4
Servings
375
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
quinoa
1 cup (rinsed well)
water or apple juice
2 cups (n/a)
cinnamon
1/2-1 teaspoon (to taste)
apples
2 (diced)
dried cranberries
3/4 cup (n/a)
pecans
1/2 cup (chopped)
low-fat vanilla yogurt
1 1/2 cups (n/a)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or apple juice, along with the cinnamon. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
3
Remove the quinoa from the heat and let it cool slightly. Fluff with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
4
Once cooled, gently stir in the diced apples, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
5
Transfer the quinoa mixture into a large bowl and fold in the low-fat vanilla yogurt until everything is evenly combined.
6
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
7
Serve chilled as a refreshing breakfast option, and enjoy it for up to three days stored in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
56.25g
Carbs
11.25g
Protein
7.5g
Fiber
15g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chilled Cinnamon Apple Quinoa Delight?
It is a nutritious breakfast dish featuring quinoa, diced apples, pecans, and dried cranberries mixed with vanilla yogurt.
What inspired this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by a popular sample offered at Trader Joe's.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats from quinoa and pecans.
Can I serve this dish warm?
While it can be eaten warm, it is specifically designed to be served chilled for a refreshing breakfast experience.
What variety of apples works best?
Any crisp variety like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp works well for added texture and sweetness.
Can I use apple juice instead of water?
Yes, using apple juice to cook the quinoa adds an extra layer of sweetness and fruit flavor.
How much cinnamon is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, depending on your personal preference.
What is the cooking time for the quinoa?
The quinoa should simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed.
Is it necessary to rinse the quinoa?
Yes, rinsing quinoa well before cooking helps remove its natural bitter coating called saponin.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, simply substitute the low-fat vanilla yogurt with a plant-based vanilla yogurt alternative.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 375 calories.
How much protein is in each serving?
There are 11.25 grams of protein per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is an excellent meal prep choice as it can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
How long does the recipe last in the fridge?
It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the yogurt and fresh apples will change significantly upon thawing.
What kind of yogurt should I use?
The recipe recommends using 1.5 cups of low-fat vanilla yogurt for creaminess and flavor.
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes if you prefer a different nut profile.
What do dried cranberries add to the dish?
Dried cranberries provide a chewy texture and a tart-sweet flavor balance.
Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
This specific recipe is designed for quinoa, but you could try cooked farro or barley for a different texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
What is the texture of the dish?
The dish is a combination of fluffy quinoa, crunchy pecans, crisp apples, and creamy yogurt.
Can I add additional sweeteners?
The yogurt and fruit provide sweetness, but you can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if desired.
How much fiber is provided per serving?
Each serving provides 7.5 grams of dietary fiber.
What type of quinoa is best?
White, red, or tri-color quinoa all work well for this breakfast delight.
What equipment is needed?
You will need a medium saucepan, a fork for fluffing, and a large mixing bowl.
How long should the dish chill before eating?
It is recommended to refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Can I add fresh fruit toppings?
Yes, fresh berries or sliced bananas make a wonderful addition when serving.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, its sweet and creamy profile makes it a healthy, kid-friendly breakfast or snack.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 7.5 grams of fat.