Mediterranean Warm Roasted Quinoa Salad with Creamy Sesame Dressing
A hearty, nutrient-packed salad with roasted Mediterranean vegetables, fluffy quinoa, chickpeas, and a creamy sesame (tahini) dressing. It works great as a main dish or a side.
Time
Cook time:12 min
Prep time:20 min
Ingredients
For the Salad
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
1 small red onion, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup cooked chickpeas (drained)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp cumin
Salt & black pepper to taste
Fresh Add-ins
¼ cup chopped parsley
¼ cup crumbled feta (optional)
2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or almonds
Creamy Sesame Dressing
3 tbsp tahini (sesame paste)
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp maple syrup or honey
1 small garlic clove, minced
2–4 tbsp warm water (to thin)
Salt to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
1. In a pot, combine quinoa and water/broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 12–15 minutes until fluffy.
3. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.
2. Roast the Vegetables
1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Toss bell pepper, zucchini, onion, tomatoes, and chickpeas with:
olive oil
paprika
cumin
salt & pepper
3. Roast 20–25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Make the Sesame Dressing
Whisk together:
tahini
lemon juice
olive oil
garlic
honey/maple
Slowly add warm water until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Salad
1. In a large bowl combine warm quinoa + roasted vegetables.
2. Add parsley and toss gently.
3. Drizzle with sesame dressing.
4. Top with feta and toasted nuts.
Serving Tips
Best served warm or slightly hot.
Add grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for extra protein.
Sprinkle sumac or chili flakes for a stronger Mediterranean flavor.