"Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables and Lemon Tahini Dressing"

 

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1 small eggplant, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Lemon Tahini Dressing:

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Water (to thin, if needed)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Roast the Vegetables: Place the diced eggplant, zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and black pepper, and toss to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and set aside.

3. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool.

4. Prepare the Lemon Tahini Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, maple syrup or honey, salt, and black pepper. If the dressing is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Set aside.

5. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables. Drizzle the lemon tahini dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.

6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the quinoa salad with roasted vegetables to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve it warm or at room temperature.

7. Optional Additions: Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or toasted pine nuts for extra flavor and texture.

8. Enjoy: Serve this nutritious and flavorful quinoa salad as a delicious main dish or as a side to complement your favorite protein. Enjoy the vibrant colors and wholesome goodness of this delightful dish!