Quinoa & Roasted Veggie Salad

Name: Quinoa & Roasted Veggie Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients: 1 cup tri-color quinoa; 1 medium zucchini; 2 bell peppers (red or yellow); 2 medium carrots; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; Fresh herbs (parsley or basil); Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Olivia Carter

Posted:

March 25, 2025

Updated:

March 25, 2025

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The sun is shining, and the aroma of roasted vegetables fills the kitchen. Imagine a colorful medley of peppers, zucchini, and carrots mingling with fluffy quinoa. This Quinoa & Roasted Veggie Salad isn’t just a dish; it’s a party on your plate! Bursting with flavor and vibrant colors, it’s perfect for picnics or dinner parties.

Picture this: you’re gathered with friends at a summer barbecue. You set down this beautiful salad, and suddenly everyone wants the recipe. It’s that good! This dish is not only easy to whip up but also a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to every occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This nutritious quinoa & roasted veggie salad makes meal prep easy while being deliciously satisfying
You can customize it based on your favorite vegetables or what’s in season
The colorful layers make it visually appealing for any gathering
Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own

I remember the first time I made this salad for my family; their eyes lit up like they’d just seen their favorite superhero.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Quinoa: Use tri-color quinoa for an added visual appeal while maintaining excellent nutritional value.
Zucchini: Select firm zucchinis; they should feel heavy for their size and have shiny skin.
Bell Peppers: Any color will do! I prefer red and yellow for their sweetness and vibrant color.
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring crunchiness; choose ones that feel firm without any soft spots.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor; it’s worth splurging on quality here.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; avoid bottled varieties if possible!
Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Basil): Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile and add a pop of color.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepping the Quinoa: Start by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove bitterness. Cook it in 2 cups of boiling water on medium heat for about 15 minutes until fluffy.

Roasting the Veggies: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Chop zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them on a baking sheet.

Baking Time!: Roast the veggies in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Enjoy that lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Mixing It All Together: In a large bowl, combine your cooked quinoa with the roasted veggies once they cool slightly. Add fresh lemon juice and chopped herbs for that burst of flavor.

Tossing It Up!: Gently toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed—this is where you can really personalize the flavors!

Chill Before Serving!: Let your quinoa & roasted veggie salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend beautifully.

Enjoy this colorful dish that’s sure to impress everyone around you!

You Must Know

Quinoa & Roasted Veggie Salad is a nutritious powerhouse, combining flavor with vibrant colors
This salad can be served warm or cold, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match your favorite veggies!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting your veggies first; while they’re baking, cook the quinoa. This ensures everything is hot and ready at the same time, creating a delightful blend of flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out veggies based on the season or what’s in your fridge. Adding nuts or seeds can provide an exciting crunch, enhancing both texture and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing snack.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To avoid mushy quinoa, rinse it before cooking to remove bitterness and ensure fluffiness
Always taste as you go; seasoning can vary based on personal preference and veggie types
Don’t overcrowd your roasting pan for perfectly caramelized vegetables!

Sharing this dish with friends at a summer BBQ turned into a delightful experience when everyone kept asking for the recipe! It warmed my heart to see them enjoying something so healthy together.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Yes, farro or brown rice can be excellent substitutes for quinoa.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

How can I make this salad vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly; just ensure all added ingredients are plant-based!