Print

Irresistible Herbed Quinoa Stuffing Recipe with Apples and Walnuts

herbed quinoa stuffing - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting and fresh quinoa stuffing with sautéed onions, fresh herbs, crunchy toasted walnuts, and sweet apples. This gluten-free, nutrient-rich side is perfect for any occasion and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) dry quinoa, rinsed well
  • 2 cups (480ml) vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 large apple (Fuji or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
  • 3/4 cup (75g) walnuts, chopped and lightly toasted
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  2. While quinoa cooks, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 3/4 cup chopped walnuts and toast, stirring frequently for 4-5 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped yellow onion and 2 diced celery stalks. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until aromatic, stirring frequently.
  4. Stir in 1 large diced apple, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, and 2 tablespoons fresh parsley. Cook for 3-4 minutes until apples start to soften but still hold their shape.
  5. Add cooked quinoa to the skillet with the veggie-apple mixture. Stir gently to combine. Fold in toasted walnuts. Season with 1 teaspoon sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Remove skillet from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors.
  7. Optional: Transfer quinoa stuffing to a lightly greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes for a warm, slightly crisp top. Otherwise, serve immediately.

Notes

Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove bitterness. Toast walnuts separately to keep them crunchy. Use fresh herbs for best flavor; if using dried, reduce quantity and add earlier in cooking. Lemon juice brightens the dish and balances sweetness. Can be served straight from skillet or baked for a crispy top. For vegan version, use vegetable broth and vegan butter or coconut oil instead of olive oil. Nut-free option: substitute walnuts with toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds or omit nuts. Fruit variations include pears, dried cranberries, or fresh peaches.

Nutrition

Keywords: quinoa stuffing, herbed stuffing, gluten-free stuffing, apple stuffing, walnut stuffing, healthy stuffing, holiday side dish, vegetarian stuffing

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/irresistible-herbed-quinoa-stuffing-recipe-with-apples-and-walnuts-easy-step-by-step-guide/