Vegan Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables

This Vegan Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables is a nourishing and wholesome dish that’s perfect for a healthy meal. It’s vibrant, packed with nutrients, and bursting with hearty flavors from roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. Ideal for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish, this salad is both satisfying and incredibly nutritious.

Ingredients:
For the Salad:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 red onion, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– Olive oil for roasting
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave nectar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. ####### Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. ####### In a medium pot, combine the quinoa and water (or vegetable broth). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.

3. ####### While the quinoa is cooking, spread the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and spread in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.

4. ####### In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, mint, green onions, and chickpeas.

5. ####### In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the lemon vinaigrette until well combined.

6. ####### Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

7. ####### Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

8. ####### Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld and serve chilled.

This Vegan Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables is a delicious and refreshing dish that’s both filling and full of vibrant flavors. Enjoy it as a complete meal on its own or pair it with your favorite entrée.