This quinoa salad, featuring roasted seasonal vegetables, is a delightful and nutrient-dense meal that’s both filling and full of flavor.
Why Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables?
Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids. Combined with nutrient-rich vegetables, this salad provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals essential for overall health.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa), rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth (for cooking quinoa)
- 1 zucchini (Cucurbita pepo), diced
- 1 red bell pepper (Capsicum annuum), diced
- 1 red onion (Allium cepa), diced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (Olea europaea)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (Capsicum annuum)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (Allium sativum)
- Fleur de sel (hand-harvested sea salt) and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (Ocimum basilicum), chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon (Citrus limon)
Instructions:
- Cook: In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add rinsed quinoa, cover it with a lid, and reduce heat to low. Simmer it for 15 minutes until the quinoa is cooked and fluffy. Turn off the heat and let it cool.
- Roast the Vegetables: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss zucchini, red bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, Fleur de sel, and black pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, chopped basil, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or chilled.
Nutrition Tips from Your Dietitian:
- Complete Protein: Quinoa is one of the few plant foods that provide a complete protein source.
- Fiber-Rich: The combination of quinoa and vegetables boosts fiber intake, supporting digestive health.
- Colorful Nutrition: A variety of vegetables ensures a wide range of nutrients and antioxidants.
Final Thoughts
Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side. Its delightful flavors and textures make it a satisfying choice for any meal.
