Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the roasted vegetables. In a baking dish, toss the diced red onion, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and zucchini with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, mint leaves, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. In a small jar, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Shake well to emulsify the dressing.
6. Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. Serve the quinoa salad at room temperature or chilled. It can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or as a side with grilled chicken or fish.
This Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors. It's a perfect choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. Enjoy!
