Wholesome Energizing Quinoa and Roasted Veggie Salad Recipe for a Healthy Meal

Fluffy quinoa ready for salad

Are you craving a bright, wholesome meal that will energize your body and please your taste buds? Look no further! This Wholesome Energizing Quinoa and Roasted Veggie Salad is a delicious combination of flavors that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied. Quinoa is not just trendy; it's recognized as a superfood, being a complete protein that offers all nine essential amino acids. Paired with an array of roasted vegetables, this salad is a feast for your senses. Let's explore this easy-to-follow recipe, perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!

Ingredients

To create this energizing salad, make sure you have these fresh ingredients on hand:

• 1 cup of quinoa (rinsed)

• 2 cups of vegetable broth (or water)

• 1 red bell pepper (diced)

• 1 zucchini (sliced)

• 1 yellow squash (sliced)

• 1 red onion (sliced)

• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes (halved)

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• Salt and pepper (to taste)

• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika

• 1 avocado (sliced)

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

• Lemon juice (to taste)

  
  

Cooking the Quinoa

Cooking quinoa is easier than you might think. Start by rinsing the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer to remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

After cooking, let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. This step is key, as it separates the grains and gives your salad a light and airy texture.

Roasting the Vegetables

While the quinoa cooks, let’s roast some vibrant vegetables. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

On a large baking sheet, toss together diced red bell pepper, sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and red onion with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Spread the vegetables in a single layer; this helps them roast evenly.

Roast the veggies for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. The high heat enhances their natural sweetness, making them the perfect addition to your salad.

Vibrant roasted vegetables ready for salad

Assembling Your Salad

When your quinoa and roasted vegetables are ready, it’s assembly time! In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the roasted veggies.

Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced avocado. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the other ingredients, adding richness to each bite.

Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and toss everything together to mix the flavors. Adding lemon juice not only brightens the salad but also enhances your body's ability to absorb nutrients from the vegetables.

Serving Ideas

This Energizing Quinoa and Roasted Veggie Salad can be enjoyed warm or chilled, which makes it perfect for any occasion.

For additional protein, try adding 1 cup of cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken breast slices. You can also personalize the salad with your favorite vegetables or fresh herbs like cilantro or mint.

Serve this dish as a filling main course or as a side with grilled meats or fish. It’s a smart meal prep option, as it stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Health Benefits

This salad isn’t just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrition!

• Quinoa contains about 8 grams of protein per cup, plus it’s high in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you full.

• Roasted vegetables are loaded with vitamins A and C, crucial for a healthy immune system.

• Avocado offers around 15 grams of heart-healthy fat per fruit, essential for overall wellness.

  
  

Incorporating this salad into your routine means not only indulging in a delicious meal but also providing your body with healthy, nourishing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Adding this Wholesome Energizing Quinoa and Roasted Veggie Salad to your menu is a fantastic way to enjoy a vibrant, satisfying meal full of flavors and health benefits.

Whether you need a quick lunch idea, a hearty dinner option, or a meal prep solution, this salad is sure to impress. With its colorful ingredients and delicious taste, it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen.

Gather your ingredients, start cooking, and delight in the experience of making and enjoying this energizing salad! Your body will truly appreciate it!