Warm Roasted Veggies Quinoa Salad with Creamy Sesame Dressing
This vibrant salad combines nutty quinoa with sweet, caramelized roasted vegetables, tossed in a rich, creamy sesame dressing. It’s served warm, making it a perfect comfort-food-style salad that’s still light and healthy. Perfect as a main or a side dish, it’s packed with fiber, protein, and flavor.
⏱ Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 small zucchini, diced
1 small carrot, diced
1 small red onion, diced
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
For the Creamy Sesame Dressing:
3 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp maple syrup or honey
2–3 tbsp warm water (to thin)
1 small garlic clove, minced
Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
In a saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil.
Add rinsed quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes until water is absorbed.
Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
2. Roast the Vegetables
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss bell peppers, zucchini, carrot, and red onion with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet and roast 20–25 minutes, tossing halfway, until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, soy sauce, lemon juice, maple syrup, and garlic.
Add warm water gradually until smooth and pourable.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa and warm roasted vegetables.
Drizzle with creamy sesame dressing and toss gently.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped parsley or cilantro.
5. Serve
Serve warm as a main dish or a hearty side.
Optional: Add chickpeas or grilled halloumi for extra protein.
Tips & Notes
For extra flavor, roast vegetables with a pinch of coriander or sumac.
Dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Quinoa can be substituted with couscous, bulgur, or farro for a different texture.
Toast sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan to enhance their nutty flavor.
️ Serving Ideas
Serve with grilled chicken or fish for a full Mediterranean meal.
Add a side of pita bread or flatbread.
Great as a meal prep lunch — tastes even better after flavors meld.
Nutrition information
Calories: ~350 kcal
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 6g