Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables and Lemon-Tahini Dressing
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 small sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 small zucchini, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon-Tahini Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water, as needed to thin the dressing
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce 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 sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- While the quinoa is cooking, spread the diced sweet potato, zucchini, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the lemon-tahini dressing until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once the quinoa and vegetables are cooked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced red onion and chopped parsley.
- Drizzle the lemon-tahini dressing over the quinoa and vegetables, and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve warm or at room temperature.
This vibrant and nutrient-packed quinoa salad is not only gluten-free and dairy-free but also bursting with heart-healthy ingredients like vegetables, quinoa, and tahini. Enjoy as a satisfying lunch or light dinner, knowing that you’re nourishing your body and supporting your heart health with every delicious bite!
