Scandal Boggs ┃ Fashion, Beauty & Home

Experience a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite with this Hearty Quinoa Salad featuring roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and a zesty lemon herb dressing. Packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with vibrant colors, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of wholesome goodness. Elevate your dining experience with the satisfying combination of hearty quinoa, oven-roasted vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and a refreshing lemon herb dressing.

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Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and cooked according to package instructions
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, red onion), diced
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Herb Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Roasting the Vegetables:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Coat with Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil over the diced vegetables and toss them to ensure they are evenly coated. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Roast in the Oven: Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir the vegetables halfway through the roasting time for even cooking.
5. Prepare Quinoa: While the vegetables are roasting, cook the quinoa according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool.

Lemon Herb Dressing:

6. Whisk Together Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, chopped mint, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.

Assembling the Salad:

7. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and chickpeas. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.
8. Drizzle with Dressing: Drizzle the lemon herb dressing over the quinoa mixture. Toss the salad again to ensure it is well-coated with the dressing.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables and Lemon Herb Dressing to a serving platter or individual plates. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures.

Variations and Tips:

• Add Feta or Goat Cheese: Crumble feta or goat cheese over the salad for a creamy and tangy addition.
• Toasted Nuts or Seeds: Enhance the crunch by sprinkling toasted nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) or seeds (such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds) on top.
• Avocado Slices: For added creaminess, add slices of ripe avocado to the salad just before serving.
• Grilled Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost.
• Dried Fruits: Add sweetness and chewiness by incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or apricots.
• Whole Herb Leaves: Include whole herb leaves (such as basil or cilantro) for a burst of fresh herbal flavor.

Hearty Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables, Chickpeas, and Lemon Herb Dressing is a culinary masterpiece that brings together a medley of nutritious ingredients in a delightful symphony of flavors. The combination of hearty quinoa, oven-roasted vegetables, protein-packed chickpeas, and a refreshing lemon herb dressing creates a wholesome and satisfying salad that is perfect for any occasion. Share this vibrant and nourishing dish with family and friends, and savor the joy of a well-balanced meal that embodies both health and indulgence.