Vibrant Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad with a Feta-Olive Dressing
This vibrant roasted vegetable and quinoa salad is a tantalizing symphony of flavors and textures. Tender, roasted vegetables dance alongside fluffy quinoa, while feta cheese and briny olives add richness and complexity. The tangy feta-olive dressing beautifully ties all the elements together, leaving you with a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing.
In the annals of culinary history, the roasted vegetable and quinoa salad has become a modern-day classic. Its origins can be traced back to the humble kitchens of the Mediterranean, where roasted vegetables have been a staple for centuries. As quinoa gained popularity around the globe, it found its way into this beloved salad, adding a boost of protein and fiber. Today, this vibrant dish is a welcome addition to any table, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
Vibrant Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad with a Feta-Olive Dressing Vibrant Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad with a Feta-Olive Dressing Vibrant Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad with a Feta-Olive Dressing Vibrant Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad with a Feta-Olive Dressing
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups chopped vegetables (such as tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, onions)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped olives
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  2. Toss vegetables with olive oil and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until tender.
  3. While vegetables are roasting, cook quinoa according to package directions.
  4. When quinoa is cooked, combine with roasted vegetables, feta cheese, olives, olive oil, lemon juice, and thyme in a large bowl.
  5. Toss to coat.
  6. Serve immediately or chill for later.
Why It Works
  • Roasting the vegetables intensifies their natural sweetness and caramelizes their edges, resulting in a depth of flavor that cannot be achieved through other cooking methods.
  • Quinoa's mild flavor and fluffy texture provide a neutral base for the bolder flavors in the salad, allowing them to shine without overpowering each other.
  • The combination of feta cheese and olives adds a salty, briny element that complements the sweetness of the roasted vegetables and the tanginess of the dressing.
  • The feta-olive dressing, with its harmonious blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and thyme, not only adds a touch of acidity but also helps to bind all the ingredients together, creating a cohesive and flavorful salad.