Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables Recipe
This quinoa salad with roasted vegetables is a nutritious and colorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors, making it a fantastic option for a light meal or a hearty side dish.
Ingredients Quina Salad :
- 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 zucchini (sliced)
- 1 yellow squash (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red onion (cut into wedges)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions Quinoa Salad :
- Cook the Quinoa:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness.
- In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Roast the Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the red bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and toss gently to mix. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese if using.
- Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Timing Details:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings:
This recipe serves 4 as a main dish or 6 as a side dish.
Tips for the Best Quinoa Salad:
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor when cooking quinoa.
- Customize the vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference.
- Add toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Final Thoughts:
Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables is a versatile and nutritious dish that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. It’s perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a simple, healthy meal at home. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial dish, or enjoy it as is for a vegetarian delight!
