Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables

If you’re looking for a vibrant and wholesome dish to elevate your January meals, this quinoa salad with roasted vegetables is the perfect choice. Packed with nutty quinoa, caramelized veggies, and a zesty balsamic dressing, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re meal-prepping for a busy week or serving a crowd, this colourful salad will brighten any table and keep your new year on a healthy, satisfying track.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
  • 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
  • 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a medium pot, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, toss the butternut squash, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables in an even layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to coat. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
  • Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy as a light main dish or as a side to your favourite protein.

Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables is a celebration of flavour, texture, and nutrition all in one bowl. With its blend of hearty quinoa, sweet roasted vegetables, and tangy dressing, it’s a dish that satisfies both the taste buds and the body. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, this salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Try it today and savor the delicious simplicity!