Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad

Name: Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 red onion, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Fresh parsley for garnish; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

A hearty and nutritious salad packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-01T17:22:30.695Z

This roasted vegetable quinoa salad combines the earthy flavors of roasted veggies with the nutty taste of quinoa, making it a delightful dish that's both filling and nutritious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful and vibrant presentation that makes you want to dig in
Nutrient-dense with a perfect balance of flavors
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or dressings

      

Nutritional Benefits of Quinoa

Quinoa is often hailed as a superfood due to its impressive nutritional profile. Unlike many grains, quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids necessary for human health. This makes it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans looking to boost their protein intake. Additionally, quinoa is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer, making it a great option for weight management.

Beyond protein, quinoa is loaded with vitamins and minerals. It contains significant amounts of magnesium, iron, and B vitamins, all of which play vital roles in energy production and overall health. The high antioxidant content in quinoa also helps combat oxidative stress, promoting better health and longevity.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the best features of this Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or utilize what you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the zucchini for asparagus or add in some roasted sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness. Seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or Brussels sprouts can also add a unique flavor profile.

In addition to changing up the vegetables, you can experiment with different dressings. A balsamic vinaigrette or a tahini-based dressing can offer a delicious twist. Adding nuts or seeds, such as toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds, can provide crunch and an extra nutritional boost, making your salad even more satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad makes for a fantastic main dish, but it can also be served as a side. Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty bean dish for a well-rounded meal. It's also perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for several days. Simply store it in an airtight container and enjoy it throughout the week.

For a delightful lunch option, try serving this salad in wrap form. Use a whole-grain tortilla, add a layer of greens, and pile on the quinoa salad for a nutritious and portable meal. This way, you can enjoy all the flavors and health benefits on the go!

Ingredients

For the Salad

1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 red onion, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the ingredients well to combine.

Instructions

Prepare the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). On a baking sheet, toss zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Roast for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your nutritious salad!

Storage Tips

To keep your Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to five days, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. However, if you plan to store it, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to eat. This will help maintain the crispness of the vegetables and prevent the quinoa from becoming mushy.

If you notice that your salad has dried out in the fridge, simply add a splash of water or a little extra dressing when you’re ready to serve it. This will revive the dish and enhance the flavors without compromising its texture.

Health Benefits of Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables not only enhances their flavor but also helps retain their nutrients. The high heat of roasting caramelizes the natural sugars in the vegetables, creating a delicious sweetness that can elevate any dish. This method also boosts the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, like vitamins A, D, E, and K, when paired with healthy fats like olive oil.

Moreover, incorporating a variety of vegetables into your diet can provide a range of health benefits. Different colors often indicate different nutrients, so a colorful plate means a diverse intake of vitamins and minerals. Regularly consuming roasted vegetables can contribute to better heart health, improved digestion, and reduced risk of chronic diseases.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the quinoa and roast the vegetables ahead of time. Just combine everything and add the dressing when ready to serve.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! You can substitute quinoa with farro, bulgur, or couscous for a different texture and flavor.