I was initially introduced to this dish by a friend who is no longer in this realm. We got together at least once a month with Mom and another woman to play Bid Whist, then partake in a meal. Marilyn prepared a couscous dish with east African notes using currants and cashews perfectly paired with chicken. I enjoyed the dish so greatly I improvised and came up with an equally satisfying result that is far more economical. Cranberry Quinoa is a great vegan side dish that is lightning quick to prepare, good for the holidays, in addition everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1.5 Cup Organic Quinoa
- 3 Cups Water
- 1 Not Chikn Bouillon Cube
- 1/4 Cup Organic Dried Cranberries or Currants
- 1/4 Cup Organic Roasted Peanuts or Cashews (Unsalted)
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 Large Garlic Clove
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1 teaspoon Seasoning Salt
- 1 teaspoon Marjoram
Instructions
Toast quinoa in a saucepan on high heat for a few minutes until browned. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Add stock, olive oil, garlic, seasonings and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce the heat to low cooking until all the moisture has evaporated. Add cranberries and peanuts and stir to incorporate thoroughly. Serve Cranberry Quinoa with a Rack of Lamb or a Simple Pan Seared Salmon everyone will be thankful for. Simple pleasures matter.
I’m sorry to hear Marilyn is no longer with us, but grateful for her legacy in this cranberry quinoa recipe. It was so pleasant, from the textures to the flavor.
Thank you Marta for your kind words.
What a wonderful recipe in memory of your friend. This was absolutely delicious and I plan to make it for the holidays this year!
Thanks Jessica, she is truly missed. It’s the perfect holiday side dish.
This is one of the best quinoa salads I have tasted! The cranberries and nuts combo is out of this world! Everything tasted amazing!
Love quinoa and was looking for new ways to incorporate this ingredient into my diet. Admittedly, I used chicken broth instead of the vegan alternative suggested in the post, but I’ll probably make it again using the bouillon cube for my plant based family members visiting this holiday season. Thank you for always giving us great recipes!
Thank you for the compliment, I think you’ll find the vegan version just as tasty. I’m so glad you enjoy the recipes!
This is the perfect fall time recipe! Always looking for new sides to try, and this was definitely a hit!
So glad you enjoyed it Taneisha!
This was delicious!! Came together so easily. Definitely adding to my holiday menu. xx
It’s perfect for the holidays – thanks Camille!
I made this recipe with almonds and it was so tasty! Fresh and simple flavors do it for me every time so I’ll be making it again next week. Thank you!
Fresh and simple are often the only ingredients we need. Thanks Jazz!
I cannot even begin to tell you how much we loved this recipe. I make it every Fall and my family always goes crazy for it! Thanks for this delicious recipe!
So glad you enjoyed it Britney!