Quinoa & Roasted Pepper Salad: A Nutrient-Packed Delight
Quinoa, known as a superfood for its impressive nutritional profile, takes center stage in this vibrant and flavorful salad recipe. Combined with the sweetness of roasted peppers and a zesty dressing, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish, this quinoa and roasted pepper salad will tantalize your taste buds while nourishing your body.
Ingredients:
– 200g quinoa
– 2 large red peppers
– 1 small red onion, finely sliced
– 50g feta cheese, crumbled
– 50g pumpkin seeds
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a pan, add the quinoa and double the amount of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool.
2. Roast the Peppers: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the whole red peppers on a baking tray and roast for 25-30 minutes until the skins are charred and blistered. Remove from the oven, let them cool, then peel off the skins, deseed, and slice into strips.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted pepper strips, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and pumpkin seeds. Toss gently to combine.
5. Add the Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss again to coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish the salad with chopped parsley leaves before serving. This quinoa and roasted pepper salad can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a versatile and nutritious dish for any occasion.
Why Quinoa & Roasted Pepper Salad?
Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids required by the body. It is also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a smart choice for those looking to boost their nutrient intake. Paired with antioxidant-rich roasted peppers, creamy feta cheese, and crunchy pumpkin seeds, this salad offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures.
Whether you are a seasoned quinoa enthusiast or new to the superfood scene, this quinoa and roasted pepper salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. With its vibrant colors, tantalizing taste, and nutritional benefits, this dish is a delightful way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet. Enjoy a plateful of goodness with this simple yet satisfying salad recipe.