Category Archives: Gluten-free

Peanut Crunch Asian Edamame Quinoa Salad, Packed with Plant Protein

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Peanut Crunch Asian Edamame Quinoa Salad is a meal that is as vibrant and colorful as it is nutritious -the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and good, clean fuel for your body. At just 193 calories per serving, it’s a smart choice for healthy eating without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s packed with plant protein and more that 20% of your daily fiber needs to keep you satisfied throughout the day.

PLANT PROTEIN TRIO

I love it when a plant-based salad, like this Peanut Edamame Quinoa, boasts an impressive protein content—11 grams per serving—thanks to the dynamic trio of quinoa, edamame, and peanuts. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids your body needs, making it a fantastic plant-based option. Edamame, or young soybeans, is another excellent protein source, rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients. And let’s not forget the peanuts! While they add a satisfying crunch, they also contribute a dose of protein and healthy fats, balancing flavor and nutrition. Together, these three ingredients make this salad a powerhouse for muscle repair, energy, and overall health.

FRESH VEGGIE INGREDIENTS

In addition to quinoa and edamame, this peanut crunch salad recipe is loaded with fresh, colorful vegetables that bring both crunch and a wealth of vitamins and minerals.

  • Carrots: A vibrant source of beta-carotene, which supports healthy vision and skin.
  • Cucumber: Hydrating and refreshing, cucumbers add a light crunch and are rich in vitamin K.
  • Celery: Crisp and fibrous, celery is a low-calorie addition packed with antioxidants.
  • Red Onion: Adds a zesty kick while providing vitamin C and beneficial compounds that support heart health.

These ingredients don’t just make the Asian Edamame Quinoa Salad look stunning and taste so crispy fresh, they also provide essential nutrients to keep you feeling your best. If you don’t like one of these ingredients, omit or swap – this recipe is forgiving. For example, you could do green onion instead of red onion, zucchini instead of carrot, or red bell peppers instead of or in addition to the carrots!

LOW-FAT PEANUT DRESSING

I’m all about moderation, that’s why the tangy peanut dressing uses peanut butter powder to capture the nutty flavor and creaminess without the extra fat and calories that using regular peanut butter would. This smart swap keeps the Asian peanut dressing with peanut butter powder recipe irresistibly tasty while lowering the total fat content to just 5 grams per serving  — and you still get to use chopped Spanish peanut in the salad toss.

MEAL PREPPING QUINOA SALAD

This salad isn’t just delicious—it’s practical too as are basically all high-protein quinoa salads. It stays fresh and crisp in an air-tight container (these are great, reusable meal prep containers) for up to 4-5 days in the fridge, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Whip up a batch at the start of the week and enjoy it as a grab-and-go lunch or an easy dinner side. Since it’s best served cold, it’s ideal for a brown-bag lunch, an on-the-go meal, or even a quick eat-at-your-desk solution. No reheating required—just open your container and dig in! If you’d like to make it heartier, add pre-cooked protein options like grilled shrimp, chopped chicken breast or salmon bites.

So flavorful and satisfying for lunch, dinner or meal prep! Peanut Crunch Asian Edamame Quinoa Salad is a colorful, vegetable-packed powerhouse of nutrition with only 193 calories, 11g plant protein, and over 20% of your daily fiber needs per serving.
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Peanut Crunch Asian Edamame Quinoa Salad
Prep Time
15 mins
Total Time
15 mins
 

Vibrant, colorful, and fun to eat! This Peanut Crunch Asian Edamame Quinoa Salad is a nutrient-packed powerhouse with only 193 calories, 11g protein, and over 20% of your daily fiber needs per serving. It's great for meal prep!

Course: entree salad, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian, meal prep, pot luck
Keyword: edamame, peanut butter powder, peanuts, quinoa
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 193 kcal
Ingredients
  • 2 cups COOKED Quinoa
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1 cup shelled edamame soybeans
  • 1/3 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/3 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup julienned carrots
  • 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/3 cup chopped roasted Spanish peanuts
  • For Dressing:
  • 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 Tbsp ginger paste or fresh grated
  • 2 tsp ginger paste or fresh minced
  • 2 Tbsp water
  • 2 Tbsp coconut aminos or soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
  • ¼ cup peanut butter powder like Pbfit
Instructions
  1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions to yield 2 cups cooked.
  2. Let quinoa cool to at least room temperature.
  3. In large bowl, toss together all salad ingredients.
  4. In small bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients (alternately, you can shake up salad ingredients in a mason jar).
  5. Drizzle dressing over salad; stir well to distribute evenly.
  6. Best serve cold, in my opinion. Leftovers stay fresh covered in fridge for 4-5 days.
Recipe Notes

Hickory Maple Salmon Bites on Pomegranate Apple Quinoa Salad

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There’s nothing like a dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and nutrition all in one beautiful presentation. That’s exactly what you get with this Hickory Maple Salmon Bites on Pomegranate Apple Quinoa Salad. Featuring pre-seasoned, ready-to-grill salmon from Cedar Bay Grilling, this recipe makes for an effortlessly impressive meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

A colorful plate featuring Hickory Maple Salmon Bites atop a vibrant Pomegranate Apple Quinoa Salad. The dish is garnished with fresh spinach, jewel-like pomegranate arils, golden quinoa, crisp apple slices, and toasted pecans, all lightly drizzled with a creamy maple-lemon vinaigrette. The salmon bites are caramelized and crispy on the outside, perfectly complementing the fresh and hearty salad ingredients.

Effortless Salmon Preparation

Cedar Bay Grilling takes the guesswork out of cooking salmon. Their planked and pre-seasoned salmon filets are ready to cook straight from the packaging. For this dish, I used their 5-ounce Hickory Maple Salmon filets and transformed them into bite-sized pieces. By cutting each filet into eight segments, not only do you get the ideal size for layering over the quinoa salad, but you also expose more surface area for a crispy, caramelized crust while keeping the interior tender, succulent and flaky. Whether you grill, bake, or air fry, these bites are ready in under 15 minutes, making them as convenient as they are delicious.

A Salad That’s as Vibrant as It Is Nutritious

While the salmon cooks, you can quickly assemble the pomegranate apple quinoa salad (have pre-cooked quinoa on hand, even the pre-cooked kind in a pouch works). It’s a vibrant, nutrient-packed base that’s both hearty and refreshing. Here’s what makes it shine:

  • Quinoa: This protein-rich grain adds substance and texture, providing a neutral canvas to highlight the other ingredients.
  • Pomegranate Arils: Jewel-like bursts of tangy sweetness complement the savory salmon and nutty quinoa.
  • Apple: I chose Opal apples for their crispness and natural resistance to browning, ensuring the salad stays fresh and visually appealing.
  • Toasted Pecans: For a buttery crunch and depth of flavor.
  • Red Onion: A subtle sharpness that cuts through the sweetness of the fruit.
  • Spinach: A nutrient-dense leafy green that ties everything together.

Maple-Lemon Vinaigrette

To dress this salmon bowl, I created a creamy maple-lemon vinaigrette that adds a tangy sweetness and a touch of indulgence without overloading on calories. Greek yogurt serves as the base, making the dressing creamy and protein-rich, while fresh lemon juice and maple syrup balance the flavors beautifully.

Plating and Serving

To assemble layer the pomegranate quinoa salad in a shallow serving bowl and top with the crispy salmon bites. The contrast of colors—golden salmon, ruby pomegranate arils, emerald spinach, and snowy quinoa—makes for a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Quick and Easy: Pre-seasoned salmon and minimal prep make this dish perfect for busy schedules.
  • Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with lean protein, whole grains, healthy fats, and fresh produce.
  • Beautiful and Versatile: A show-stopping presentation that works as a main dish or a nourishing lunch.

With its blend of seasonal flavors, easy-for-anyone preparation, and nourishing ingredients, Hickory Maple Salmon Bites on Pomegranate Apple Quinoa Salad is a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try and experience how effortless gourmet cooking can be with Cedar Bay Grilling.

You can find Cedar Bay Grilling salmon at:  Kroger, Publix, Hannaford, Safeway, Albertsons, Fred Meyer, Ralph’s, Giant, Giant eagle, Stop n Shop and Roche Bros.

Also, follow for Cedar Bay Grilling recipes and news – Facebook and Instagram.

A colorful plate featuring Hickory Maple Salmon Bites atop a vibrant Pomegranate Apple Quinoa Salad. The dish is garnished with fresh spinach, jewel-like pomegranate arils, golden quinoa, crisp apple slices, and toasted pecans, all lightly drizzled with a creamy maple-lemon vinaigrette. The salmon bites are caramelized and crispy on the outside, perfectly complementing the fresh and hearty salad ingredients.
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Hickory Maple Salmon Bites on Pomegranate Apple Quinoa Salad
Prep Time
10 mins
Total Time
20 mins
 
Course: dinner, dinner, entree
Keyword: fish, pomegranate, quinoa, salmon, seafood
Calories: 593 kcal
Ingredients
  • 2 5- oz Hickory Maple Salmon Filets from Cedar Bay Grilling
  • ½ medium chopped golden opal apple or another variety
  • 4- ounce pomegranate arils
  • ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/3 cup toasted chopped pecans
  • 3/4 cup cooked plain quinoa home cooked or plain from a pouch
  • 2 cups coarsely chopped fresh spinach
Dressing:
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tsp real maple syrup
  • 1.5 Tbsp zero-fat Greek yogurt
Instructions
  1. Pre-heat air-fryer or oven to 380F. Unwrap salmon and cut each filet into eight pieces, spreading out just a bit on the provided cedar plank.
  2. Cook for 8-12 minutes until salmon is flakey and slight still pink and tender in center. If using a thermometer, the internal temperature in thickest part should reach 145F.
  3. While salmon is cooking, prepare quinoa salad. Toss together chopped apple, pomegranate arils, red onion, pecans, cooked quinoa and spinach.
  4. Add all dressing ingredients to a small mason jar and shake until thoroughly combined. Pour over salad and stir to distribute evenly.
  5. Distribute salad among two bowls. Place salmon pieces evenly atop salads (removing bottom skin) and enjoy!
  6. Serves 2.
Recipe Notes

Black-eyed Pea Texas Caviar

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There’s something special about traditions that carry both delicious flavors and a dash of good fortune into the New Year. For my family, one dish that checks all those boxes is Texas Caviar. This bold and beautiful mix of black-eyed peas, roasted corn, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro tossed in a zippy lime vinaigrette has been a staple on our New Year’s Day table for as long as I can remember. It’s said that black-eyed peas bring prosperity, but honestly, with a dish this good, we’re already starting the year rich—in flavor!

A Dish for Every Occasion

While Texas Caviar holds a special spot in our New Year’s traditions, it’s too good to reserve for just one day. Its versatility makes it a favorite all year long. Serve it as a vibrant side dish at barbecues and potlucks, or spoon it over a bed of greens for an easy, satisfying salad. And if you’re hosting game day or a casual gathering, pair it with tortilla chips for a dip that disappears faster than you can say, “Pass the salsa.”

Fresh, Healthy, and Oh-So-Texan

What makes Texas Caviar stand out is its balance of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. The black-eyed peas provide fiber and protein, while roasted corn and tomatoes bring sweetness. Creamy avocado adds a luxurious texture, and red onion and cilantro deliver that signature Tex-Mex kick. The tangy lime vinaigrette ties everything together, creating a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Make it Your Own

One of the best things about Texas Caviar is how adaptable it is. Want some heat? Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder. Craving more crunch? Toss in diced bell peppers. And if you’re looking to up the protein, grilled shrimp or shredded chicken make excellent additions.

Ring in the New Year with Flavor

Whether you’re carrying on the tradition of black-eyed peas for luck or just looking for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish, Texas Caviar delivers. It’s fresh, flavorful, and a little zesty—everything you want when you’re starting a new chapter.

Black-eyed Pea Texas Caviar brings together bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a sprinkle of good fortune. This vibrant mix of black-eyed peas, roasted corn, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, crisp red onion, and fresh cilantro, all tossed in a zippy lime vinaigrette, has been a New Year’s Day tradition for as long as I can remember—those lucky black-eyed peas are said to bring prosperity, but the rich flavors alone make us feel like we’re starting the year off right. Beyond the holiday, Texas Caviar shines year-round as a versatile side for cookouts, a topping for salads, or a crowd-pleasing dip for game-day gatherings. Fresh, zesty, and undeniably Texan, it’s a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious and one you’ll want to make on repeat.

Here’s to a bright and prosperous New Year, full of health, happiness, and plenty of Texas Caviar! If you like this recipe, I have another similar version from my early blog days – this version has bell peppers, jalapeno peppers and chipotle chili powder (it’s a little spicier)!

Black-eyed Pea Texas Caviar brings together bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a sprinkle of good fortune. This vibrant mix of black-eyed peas, roasted corn, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, crisp red onion, and fresh cilantro, all tossed in a zippy lime vinaigrette, has been a New Year’s Day tradition for as long as I can remember—those lucky black-eyed peas are said to bring prosperity, but the rich flavors alone make us feel like we’re starting the year off right. Beyond the holiday, Texas Caviar shines year-round as a versatile side for cookouts, a topping for salads, or a crowd-pleasing dip for game-day gatherings. Fresh, zesty, and undeniably Texan, it’s a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious and one you’ll want to make on repeat.
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Black-eyed Pea Texas Caviar
Prep Time
15 mins
Total Time
15 mins
 
Black-eyed Pea Texas Caviar brings together bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a sprinkle of good fortune. This vibrant mix of black-eyed peas, roasted corn, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, crisp red onion, and fresh cilantro, all tossed in a zippy lime vinaigrette, has been a New Year’s Day tradition for as long as I can remember
Course: Appetizer, entree salad, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern, Southwestern, texan
Keyword: black eyed peas, corn, new year, no cook, pot luck, vegetarian
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 154 kcal
Ingredients
  • 1 15- oz can black-eyed peas drained and rinsed
  • 4- oz avocado chopped
  • 2/3 cup chopped cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 2/3 cups corn frozen and thawed, canned and drained, or fresh and roasted*
  • 2-3 Tablespoons chopped scallions greens and whiles
  • ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 Tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • Dressing:
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 2 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
  1. Add salad ingredients to a bowl. In small jar, shake together the dressing ingredients until combined. Pour dressing over salad, stir gently to coat evenly. Store in fridge until ready to serve. Leftovers keep for up to 3-4 days.
Recipe Notes

Gingerbread Protein Waffles for a Festive Fitmas!

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Enjoy festive flavors and fuel our body right in the morning with these Gingerbread Protein Waffles – a seasonal, easy-to-make, and downright delicious way to keep your health goals in check without feeling deprived.

This high-protein holiday breakfast treat is not only packed with classic gingerbread spices that scream holiday vibes, but they’re also a powerhouse of protein thanks to cottage cheese and protein powder. Cottage cheese gives the batter creaminess while delivering a big protein punch, and protein powder amps things up even more.

My favorite protein powder for gingerbread recipes with protein powder (and making protein baked treats in general) is Clean Lean Protein from Nuzest – use my discount code FITFORK to save on your next purchase!)

Making these waffles couldn’t be simpler. Just blend up cottage cheese, protein powder, eggs, spices, and a handful of other easy ingredients to create a smooth batter. Then, let your waffle iron do the rest! Whether you use a mini waffle iron to cook them one at a time (makes about 12 waffles) or a larger 4-square waffle maker to knock them out quicker (done in three rounds!), you’ll have warm, spiced waffles ready in no time.

One serving of three waffles has just 240 calories and a whopping 23 grams of protein (full macros in the recipe card below). They’re perfect for breakfast, post-workout refueling, or even a holiday-inspired snack. I love topping mine with warm sugar-free lemon curd that’s been thinned out to a syrupy consistency. The bright citrusy zing pairs so well with the rich gingerbread flavor. A sugar-free maple syrups is a yummy pairing, too!

If you’re looking for holiday meal prep ideas, this recipe is a game changer. I often double or even triple the batch and freeze the extras for busy mornings or grab-and-go snacks. Just pop them in the toaster or air fryer for the best results, and they’ll taste as good as fresh off the iron.

So, this holiday season, don’t let all the treats derail your goals. These Gingerbread Protein Waffles let you indulge in festive flavors while staying on track. Whip up a batch (or three) and enjoy every healthy, seasonal bite!

This gingerbread waffle recipe is based on my original and very popular Cottage Cheese Waffles recipe! You can check it this yummy protein waffle with cottage cheese recipe here: Easy Protein Powder Cottage Cheese Waffles.

IF you’re here for the gingerbread and are a gingerbread head like me, check out this post: Holiday Inspired Healthy Gingerbread Recipes

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission from purchases made through links. This helps offset operating expenses for The Fit Fork, thanks!

Gingerbread Protein Waffles are a flavorful and festive addition to your morning routine with all those holiday spices you love, but none of the sugar overload. Each serving has 23g protein, thanks to protein powder and cottage cheese. Freezer friendly for breakfast meal prep.
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Gingerbread Protein Waffles
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
20 mins
 

Gingerbread Protein Waffles area flavorful and festive addition to your morning routine with all those holidayspices you love, but none of the sugar overload. Each serving has 23g protein,thanks to protein powder and cottage cheese. Freezer friendly for breakfastmeal prep.

Course: Breakfast, brunch, Snack
Keyword: 10 minute meal, christmas, cottage cheese, gingerbread, holiday, protein powder, waffles
Servings: 4 3 waffles per serving
Calories: 240 kcal
Ingredients
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened milk of choice
  • 2 tsp coconut oil or oil of choice
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup 2% cottage cheese
  • 1 Tbsp molasses
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp cloves
  • 1/2 cup 60g vanilla Nuzest protein powder (or powder of choice)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free baking flour like bob’s red mill gluten free baking blend
Instructions
  1. In blender, add eggs, milk, oil, vanilla, cottage cheese and molasses. Blend until smooth.
  2. Add baking soda, spices, and protein powder to blender, pulse in.
  3. Blend in flour, a little at a time, scraping down sides of blender as needed, until smooth batter created.
  4. If sweeter waffles desired, add stevia or monk fruit drops until desired level of sweetness achieved.
  5. Heat waffle iron (either a mini waffle iron or larger 4-square iron).
  6. Pour in batter and cook for several minutes, until indicator light goes off.
  7. Repeat for remaining batter.
  8. Should make 12 single waffles (or three 4-square waffles).
Recipe Notes

Holiday-Inspired Healthy Gingerbread Recipes

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Spice up your holiday season with everything gingerbread! From protein-packed quick bread to indulgent truffles, cozy lattes, and even crispy cookie brittle—these healthier recipes are full of flavor, holiday cheer and ready to fuel your festive and fit adventures.

There’s something magical about gingerbread—it’s the quintessential flavor of the holidays, bringing warmth, nostalgia, and just the right amount of spice to the season. From comforting breads and indulgent desserts to creative drinks and snacks, gingerbread isn’t just for cookies anymore! Dive into this collection of holiday gingerbread ideas from my kitchen to yours. Click on the easy gingerbread recipes to explore the full recipes and bring these delicious ideas to life.

DIY Homemade Gingerbread Spice

DIY Homemade Gingerbread Spice: Create your own gingerbread spice mix and discover a dozen creative ways to sprinkle it into your favorite recipes.

Gingerbread Chai Latte with Collagen: A cozy, protein-boosted latte that blends the boldness of chai spices with the sweet essence of gingerbread.

A chocolate-lover's twist on the quintessential holiday season treat - gingerbread! Simple and delicious, makes two little loaves, one for you and one for sharing!

Chocolate Gingerbread Mini Loaves: Mini loaves that combine rich chocolate and spicy gingerbread—a chocolate gingerbread mini loaf perfect for gifting or indulging!

My Protein Gingerbread is a holiday must-bake! At just 231 calories, but with 10g protein, it’s perfect as a cozy dessert, snack, or brunch treat that satisfies a sweet tooth but keeps you sleighing those goals. Use your choice of whey or plant-based protein powder. Ready in under 30 minutes and best served warm. So flavorful and festive!

Easy Protein Gingerbread: Enjoy a slice of this wholesome quick bread packed with protein and warm spices. This gingerbread quick bread recipe perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.

Low Carb Chocolate Gingerbread Protein Truffles - suitable for vegan, paleo, keto, and gluten free diets.

Low-Carb Chocolate Gingerbread Protein Truffles: One of my more decadent-seeming protein gingerbread recipes that’s actually keto, paleo, and vegan-friendly, with a balance of spice and sweetness.

Baked Hasselback Pears with Gingerbread Streusel prep

Hasselback Baked Pears with Gingerbread Streusel: Elegant baked pears topped with a flavorful streusel and paired with a quick gingerbread latte. Warm, spiced fruit desserts are my favorite in cool-weather months.

Paleo Gingerbread Cookie Brittle

Paleo Gingerbread Cookie Brittle: Crispy, crackly cookie brittle that’s paleo-friendly and perfect for snacking or gifting.

Baked Gingerbread Protein Donuts with Lemon Glaze - Paleo & Gluten Free - TheFitFork.com

Baked Gingerbread Protein Donuts with Lemon Glaze: These protein-packed, gluten-free donuts with a tangy glaze are a festive way to start your day.

Gingerbread Cranberry Protein Granola: A crunchy, flavorful granola that’s ideal for breakfast or a snack during your holiday hustle.

Whether you’re baking gingerbread desserts or gingerbread for breakfasts to treat friends, family, or just yourself, these healthy gingerbread recipes are sure to spice up your holiday season. What’s your favorite way to enjoy gingerbread? Let me know in the comments below!

Spice up your holiday season with everything gingerbread! From protein-packed quick bread to indulgent truffles, cozy lattes, and even crispy cookie brittle—these healthier recipes are full of flavor, holiday cheer and ready to fuel your festive and fit adventures.