Quick Quinoa & Roasted Veggie Salad
A vibrant and satisfying salad featuring fluffy quinoa, tender roasted vegetables, and protein-packed chickpeas, all tossed in a bright lemon-herb dressing for a quick and nutritious meal.
For 3 servings
If not already cooked, prepare quinoa according to package directions. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
Ensure roasted vegetables are cooled to room temperature or slightly warm. If starting from raw, chop desired vegetables into bite-sized pieces, toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined and slightly emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and drained and rinsed chickpeas.
Pour the prepared dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
If using, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, or cover and refrigerate for later. The flavors meld beautifully after chilling for at least 30 minutes.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Meal Prep Friendly: Cook a larger batch of quinoa and roast extra vegetables at the beginning of the week to significantly cut down on assembly time for this salad.
- 2Texture Boost: Add toasted nuts (like almonds or walnuts) or seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower) for an extra layer of crunch and healthy fats.
- 3Flavor Depth: For a richer dressing, consider adding a touch of maple syrup or honey (1/2 tsp) to balance the tang of the lemon.
- 4Don't Over-Dress: Start with most of the dressing and add more if needed. You can always add, but you can't take away!
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken, pan-seared tofu, or hard-boiled eggs for an even more substantial meal.
Mediterranean TwistMediterranean Twist
Incorporate Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh mint for a distinct Mediterranean flavor profile.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or add some finely diced jalapeño to the roasted vegetables for a touch of heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Quinoa and vegetables provide ample dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety, which can help with weight management.
Plant-Based Protein
Quinoa and chickpeas are excellent sources of complete plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair, energy, and overall body function.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Loaded with a diverse range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the colorful vegetables, this salad helps combat oxidative stress and supports immune health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this salad is excellent for meal prep! It can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often improve as they meld over time.
