Introduction

The Honey Mustard Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad is a delightful dish that combines wholesome ingredients to create a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for lunch or as a side dish, this salad features roasted vegetables, protein-packed quinoa, and a sweet yet tangy honey mustard dressing. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy and vibrant meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Quinoa: 1 cup
Vegetable broth or water: 2 cups
Sweet potatoes: 2, diced
Brussels sprouts: 1 pound, halved
Red onion: 1, chopped
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Honey: 2 tablespoons
Dijon mustard: 2 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Parsley: fresh, for garnish

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

This Honey Mustard Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad is not only easy to make but also offers a wonderful combination of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds while providing essential nutrients. Enjoy it as a hearty meal or a delicious side dish at your next gathering.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) in preparation for roasting the vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Chop the vegetables you intend to use in the salad into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Honey Mustard Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.

Step 4: Toss the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped vegetables. Pour the honey mustard dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.

Step 5: Roast the Vegetables

Spread the coated vegetables onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned, stirring halfway through.

Step 6: Cook the Quinoa

While the vegetables roast, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Step 7: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the roasted vegetables. Stir well to mix everything together.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the quinoa salad warm or at room temperature. You can also garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside your favorite protein.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Some great options include bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, or sweet potatoes.

Dietary Modifications

For a vegan option, ensure the honey is replaced with maple syrup.

Cook techniques

Roasting Vegetables

Roasting vegetables enhances their natural flavors and sweetness. Toss the veggies in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast in a preheated oven until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Cooking Quinoa

Rinse quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness, then cook it in a ratio of 2:1 water to quinoa. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.

Making Honey Mustard Dressing

Whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust the ingredients to taste for a balanced sweet and tangy flavor.

Combining Ingredients

After roasting the vegetables and cooking the quinoa, combine them in a large bowl along with the honey mustard dressing. Toss gently to ensure even coating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the roasted vegetable quinoa salad warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or alongside protein options like grilled chicken or tofu.

FAQ

Can I use different vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, feel free to use any seasonal or preferred vegetables you have on hand.

How long can I store the salad?

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I meal prep this salad?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep, as it holds up well in the fridge and makes for a convenient lunch option.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?

Yes, you can modify the amount of honey to suit your taste for sweetness.

Conclusion

This Honey Mustard Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of roasted vegetables and quinoa, dressed in a sweet and tangy honey mustard vinaigrette, ensures that each bite is packed with vibrant taste. This salad is perfect for meal prep, a healthy lunch, or a side dish for any dinner, welcoming freshness to your table.

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