Memorial Day Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad Recipe

Name: Memorial Day Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa (rinsed); 1 medium zucchini (chopped); 2 bell peppers (any color, chopped); 1 medium red onion (sliced); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh herbs (basil or parsley, chopped); Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 2, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Memorial Day Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad is a breeze to prepare and packed with flavor that everyone will enjoy.
You can customize it based on seasonal veggies available in your area.
The beautiful colors make it an eye-catching addition to any table setting.
Perfect as a side dish or a light main course during those hot summer days!

I remember the first time I made this salad; my friends couldn’t believe how delicious it was! They devoured it within minutes and even asked for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Quinoa: Rinse before cooking to eliminate bitterness; use tri-color for visual appeal.
Zucchini: Choose firm zucchinis for roasting; they add great texture.
Bell Peppers: Use red, yellow, or orange for sweetness; they brighten up the dish.
Red Onion: Offers a sweet flavor when roasted; slice thinly for even cooking.
Cherry Tomatoes: Use halved cherry tomatoes for bursts of juicy flavor.
Olive Oil: Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best taste; drizzling enhances flavors.
Fresh Herbs: Try basil or parsley; they give freshness that complements the roasted veggies.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed adds brightness; it balances out the richness of the oil.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help roast your veggies perfectly while keeping them tender inside.

Prepare the Veggies: Chop zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Halve cherry tomatoes so their juices caramelize nicely during roasting.

Season the Veggies: In a large bowl, toss your chopped vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated. This step ensures every bite is flavorful.

Roast Away: Spread the seasoned veggies on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and tender—the aroma will fill your kitchen!

Cook the Quinoa: While the veggies roast away happily in their oven paradise, cook one cup of rinsed quinoa in two cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer until fluffy—about 15 minutes.

Mix It Up: Once everything is done cooking and cooled slightly, combine roasted veggies with cooked quinoa in a large serving bowl. Drizzle lemon juice over everything and sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley.

And there you have it—a delightful Memorial Day Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad that will be sure to impress family and friends! Enjoy every colorful bite!

You Must Know

This Memorial Day Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad is a colorful feast that delights both the palate and the eyes.
With endless customization options, it’s perfect for any gathering.
The aroma of roasted veggies mingles with quinoa to create a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting your vegetables while cooking the quinoa, ensuring everything finishes at the same time for a seamless meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or add different herbs and spices to match your taste preferences!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of water.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness.
A little olive oil enhances roasted veggie flavors beautifully.
For crunch, top with nuts or seeds just before serving!

Sharing this recipe brought back memories of summer BBQs where my friends devoured it and asked for seconds. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time!

FAQ

Can I use other grains besides quinoa?

Yes, feel free to replace quinoa with farro or bulgur for different textures.

What vegetables work best for roasting?

Carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus all roast wonderfully and add vibrant colors.

How can I make this salad vegan-friendly?

This salad is already vegan; just ensure any additional toppings are plant-based!

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