Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad

If you’re looking for a delicious and wholesome dish that’s perfect for any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! This Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad is one of my go-to recipes when I want something filling and nutritious. It’s not just about eating your veggies; it’s about enjoying them! Whether you’re prepping meals for a busy week or hosting a family gathering, this salad will shine on your table.

The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, and it’s packed with flavor. The roasted broccoli adds a lovely crunch while the quinoa provides that satisfying bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this salad is a great way to enjoy your veggies.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time!
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or as a side for any meal.
• Meal prep friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of flavors and textures will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy to make this Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad—just some simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad

• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 5 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Olive oil (for drizzling)
• 1 large shallot (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup parsley (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds

For the Vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon (2 to 3 tablespoons)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic (crushed)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• Black pepper (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily make adjustments based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add different veggies: Feel free to toss in other roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and flavor.
• Change the nuts: Swap slivered almonds with walnuts or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
• Boost the protein: Add chickpeas or black beans to make it even more filling.
• Try different grains: Substitute quinoa with farro or brown rice for an alternative grain base.

How to Make Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad

Step 1: Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F and get ready to create something delicious! Greasing or lining your baking dish will help prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa well under cold water, as this helps remove its natural coating which can be bitter. Combine it with 1 ½ cups water in a pot. Bringing it to a boil over high heat allows it to cook evenly. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork—this little step makes all the difference in texture!

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Toss those bright green broccoli florets and thinly sliced shallots into your prepared baking dish. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and gives them that lovely crispy edge we all love!

Step 4: Make Vinaigrette

While those veggies are roasting away, grab a small jar and combine olive oil, lemon juice, zest, dijon mustard, crushed garlic, salt, and black pepper inside. Seal it tight and shake vigorously until everything is beautifully mixed together. This dressing adds brightness and zing!

Step 5: Combine

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa with the roasted vegetables, finely chopped parsley, and slivered almonds. Drizzle the vinaigrette over everything and give it all a good toss so every bite is flavorful!

Step 6: Serve & Store

This salad can be enjoyed warm or chilled—whatever floats your boat! If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so tasty), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad! It’s sure to bring smiles around your dinner table.

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad

Creating a delicious Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad is easy, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh broccoli and herbs when possible. Fresh produce enhances the flavor and nutritional profile of your salad, making each bite more vibrant and satisfying.
• Don’t Skip the Toasting: Lightly toast the slivered almonds in a dry pan before adding them to the salad. This step brings out their nuttiness, adding a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to your dish.
• Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the vinaigrette! If you prefer a tangier salad, add a bit more lemon juice. If you want it creamier, whisk in a spoonful of tahini or your favorite nut butter.
• Add Extra Veggies: Mix in additional roasted vegetables like bell peppers or sweet potatoes for extra color and flavor. This not only boosts the nutrition but also makes your salad visually appealing.
• Make It Ahead: Prepare this salad in advance for easy meal prep. The flavors meld beautifully after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, making it even tastier as leftovers!

How to Serve Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad

This Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad can be enjoyed in many delightful ways, whether as a main dish or a side option. Here are some ideas to help you present this colorful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra splash of freshness right before eating.
• Chili Flakes: A sprinkle of chili flakes adds a hint of heat that perfectly complements the earthy flavors of quinoa and broccoli.
• Fresh Herbs: Top with additional parsley or even cilantro for an aromatic finish that enhances its visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers filled with seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms make for a perfect accompaniment, adding smoky flavors that’ll complement your salad beautifully.
• Hummus & Veggie Platter: A platter featuring creamy hummus alongside crunchy carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips provides a refreshing contrast and pairs wonderfully with your hearty salad.
• Chickpea Fritters: Crispy chickpea fritters offer protein-packed satisfaction that rounds out the meal nicely while providing great texture.
• Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup is comforting and nutritious, making it an ideal pair for this salad on cooler days while keeping everything plant-based.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy your Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve its freshness:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salad to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Although it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the quinoa and roasted veggies separately.
• Portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers; label with the date.
• Use within 2-3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, simply microwave for a minute or two until warm, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I customize my Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, nuts, or seeds. Chickpeas or bell peppers also make great additions!

How long does Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad last in the fridge?

This salad stays fresh for up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad gluten-free?

Yes! This salad is made with quinoa, which is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

What can I serve with Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad?

This salad makes a wonderful side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It can also be served as a hearty main dish on its own!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad as much as I do! It’s not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor and texture. A perfect addition to your meal prep rotation or a wholesome dinner option. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients—make it your own! Happy cooking!