Zesty Quinoa Salad with Roasted Veggies
Zesty Quinoa Salad with Roasted Veggies is a vibrant and healthy dish packed with flavors. This salad combines fluffy quinoa with delicious roasted vegetables and a zesty dressing that brightens up any meal. It is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish for gatherings!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Zesty Quinoa Salad is a great way to enjoy nutrition without sacrificing taste. Quinoa is a complete protein, making it an excellent choice for plant-based diets. Roasting the veggies enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor. Plus, this salad is versatile and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep or a quick weekday dinner.
How to Make Zesty Quinoa Salad with Roasted Veggies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Zesty Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the diced zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables onto a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, until they are tender and caramelized.
- While the vegetables roast, rinse the quinoa under cold water. Cook it in water or broth according to the package instructions. Let it cool slightly after cooking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and salt and black pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the roasted vegetables. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Serve the salad warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
How to Serve Zesty Quinoa Salad
You can serve Zesty Quinoa Salad as a standalone dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. This salad also works great for lunch boxes or picnics, making it a flexible dish to enjoy anytime.
How to Store Zesty Quinoa Salad
Store any leftover Zesty Quinoa Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This makes it easy for meal prep, as you can prepare a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Tips to Make Zesty Quinoa Salad
- Make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove any bitter taste.
- Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients to your taste; add more lemon for extra zing!
Variation
You can add in other ingredients such as chickpeas, avocado, or feta cheese for added texture and flavor. For a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
A: Yes, you can substitute quinoa with other grains like couscous, barley, or farro.
Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: Yes, the Zesty Quinoa Salad is entirely plant-based and vegan.
Q: Can I prep this salad ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to keep the salad fresh.
Enjoy making your Zesty Quinoa Salad with Roasted Veggies, and relish the delightful flavors and nutritious benefits it brings to your table!
