Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing offers a delightful and nutritious culinary experience that appeals to both the taste buds and overall well-being.
Quinoa, a protein-rich grain, serves as the salad’s hearty base, providing a satisfying and wholesome foundation. The Lemon-Tahini Dressing adds a burst of vibrant flavors, combining the zesty freshness of lemon with the creamy richness of tahini.
This dynamic duo not only enhances the taste but also introduces a multitude of health benefits, including essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion), chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons water (adjust for desired consistency)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly browned, stirring halfway through.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add water gradually until you reach your desired dressing consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and chopped parsley. Drizzle the lemon-tahini dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can also add extra lemon juice or olive oil if desired.
- Serve the quinoa salad at room temperature or chilled. Enjoy as a nutritious and satisfying meal!
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding protein sources like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for an extra boost. This colorful and flavorful dish is not only healthy but also a great way to kick off the new year with nutritious eating!
