Quinoa Salad with Roasted Veggies Feta & Honey Dressing -

Quinoa salad with roasted veggies, feta, and honey dressing is not just a delightful dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. This healthy, vibrant salad is loaded with protein and nutrients, making it a perfect option for a wholesome lunch or dinner. Packed with roasted vegetables, fluffy quinoa, creamy feta cheese, and a sweet and tangy honey dressing, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing. In this post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step directions, and essential tips on making this beautiful quinoa salad.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This quinoa salad is a delicious way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet. The quinoa provides a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making it a filling base for any meal. The roasted veggies—zucchini, red bell pepper, and red onion—add a smoky sweetness that blends perfectly with the creamy feta cheese. The honey dressing gives a delightful sweetness that rounds off the salad and makes every bite a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s versatile, as you can serve it warm or chilled, making it great for meal prep or a potluck dish!

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to make this delicious quinoa salad. All measurements are precise to ensure you get the best results:

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 zucchini, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small red onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is perfect for roasting vegetables and will help to bring out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: While the oven is preheating, prepare the vegetables. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, and red onion. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Toss the veggies until they are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.

Step 3: Spread the seasoned vegetables onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly charred around the edges, which enhances their flavor.

Step 4: While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the quinoa. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa to the boiling liquid, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid has been completely absorbed. Remove the saucepan from the heat and fluff the quinoa with a fork.

Step 5: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, honey, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing will add a perfect sweet and tangy flavor to the salad.

Step 6: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fluffy quinoa, roasted vegetables, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped mint. Drizzle the honey dressing over the mixture, then toss everything gently to ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

Step 7: This salad can be served warm straight from the bowl or chilled in the refrigerator. It’s amazing either way!

Pro Tips for Making the Quinoa Salad

Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water before cooking to remove any bitterness from its natural coating.
Feel free to add other vegetables based on what you have at home. Some great additions include carrots, cherry tomatoes, or even sweet potatoes.
The salad can stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep.
If you’re looking for extra protein, grilled chicken or chickpeas can be excellent additions.
Experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro for a twist on flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! You can omit the feta cheese or use a vegan alternative to keep this salad entirely plant-based.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even tastier the next day!

Can I use different grains instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! This salad works well with other grains like couscous, bulgur wheat, or even rice.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent options to increase the protein content of this salad.

Conclusion

Quinoa salad with roasted veggies, feta, and honey dressing is a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or meal prep for the week, this salad fits the bill. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits that this easy recipe offers!