🥗 Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad
🍽️ Description
This Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-rich dish loaded with fluffy quinoa, caramelized veggies, and bold seasoning. It’s perfect as a light meal, meal-prep lunch, or a hearty side. Naturally gluten-free and easily customizable!
📝 Ingredients
For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed well)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth (for extra flavor)
For the Roasted Vegetables:
- 1 zucchini (sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper or squash (chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- ½ tsp paprika or chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional Add-ins (Highly Recommended):
- ¼ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tbsp toasted nuts or seeds (almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds)
Simple Dressing (Optional but elevates flavor):
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Pinch of salt
👩🍳 Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa
- In a saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil.
- Add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let cool slightly.
- Roast the Vegetables
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Toss zucchini, peppers, and squash with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Spread evenly on a baking tray.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and slightly charred.
- Make the Dressing (Optional)
- Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and salt in a small bowl.
- Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine quinoa and roasted vegetables.
- Add dressing and toss gently.
- Sprinkle with feta, herbs, and nuts if using.
🍴 Servings
Serves 3–4 people
🔥 Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 280–320 kcal
- Protein: 8–10g
- Carbs: 35–40g
- Fat: 12–15g
- Fiber: 5–7g
(Varies depending on optional add-ins)
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove bitterness.
- Roast veggies in a single layer for better caramelization.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving for brightness.
- Serve warm or chilled—it tastes great both ways.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: How can I make it more filling?
Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu for extra protein.
Q: Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely—try carrots, broccoli, eggplant, or sweet potatoes.
Q: Is it good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s high in fiber and nutrients, keeping you full longer while being balanced in calories.