
A healthy and flavorful quinoa salad featuring roasted vegetables and a vibrant Moroccan tagine-inspired dressing. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian lunch.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes, or until all water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
While the quinoa is cooking, toss butternut squash, red onion, and bell pepper with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), cumin, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, saffron (if using), salt, and pepper to create the tagine-spiced dressing.
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, chopped apricots, parsley, and cilantro.
Pour the tagine-spiced dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Serve the quinoa salad at room temperature or chilled. Garnish with toasted slivered almonds.
Nutrition per serving (280g)
For a more intense flavor, bloom the spices by gently heating them in a dry pan for a minute or two before adding them to the dressing.
You can substitute other vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or carrots for the butternut squash and bell pepper.
To toast the almonds, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown, watching carefully to prevent burning.
The salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits.
If you don't have fresh lemon juice, you can substitute with bottled lemon juice, but fresh is preferred for the best flavor.
Oven
Stove
Large Bowl
Whisk
Baking Sheet
No wine pairing suggestions available for this recipe.