Description
A fresh and nutritious Roasted Beet, Quinoa, and Carrot Salad packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants. This vibrant dish is perfect as a light meal or a wholesome side, featuring roasted vegetables, nutty quinoa, and a zesty homemade dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 medium beets, peeled and chopped
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pumpkin seeds
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Vegetables: Toss chopped beets and carrots with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Roast the Vegetables: Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Cook the Quinoa: In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Let cool.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, mix roasted beets, carrots, quinoa, and parsley. Toss with the dressing until well coated.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle with feta cheese (if using) and nuts or seeds for added crunch.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or chilled.
Notes
- For a vegan option, omit feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Enhance protein by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu.
- Swap walnuts for almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds for variety.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Serve cold or bring to room temperature before eating.
- Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat if preferred warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: roasted beet salad, quinoa salad, healthy salad, beet and carrot salad, easy vegetarian recipe