Quinoa Salad with Roasted Yams

This nutritious and flavorful quinoa salad is a perfect dish for lunch or dinner. Topped with roasted yams, it adds a delightful sweetness and earthy taste. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a satisfying meal or side dish. It's also easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of quinoa
• 2 cups of water
• 2 medium yams, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
• For the dressing:
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the quinoa and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. In a bowl, toss the cubed yams with olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well-coated.
5. Spread the seasoned yams on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted yams, diced red bell pepper, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh cilantro, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted pumpkin seeds. Toss gently to combine.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
8. Drizzle the dressing over the quinoa salad and toss to coat.
9. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
10. Serve the quinoa salad with roasted yams as a side dish or as a main course.

Interesting Facts