Roasted Vegetable & Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is an ancient grain that looks similar to couscous but has a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Not only does it taste great, but it's one of my favourite and most complete plant-based proteins with the essential amino acids needed for every body function, including growth and development, healing and repair, normal digestion, and providing energy for your body.

Whether you're on a strictly plant-based diet or need to shake up your meals, you'll love this roasted vegetable and quinoa salad.

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED:

[Serves 4]

• 1 cup (170g) dry quinoa

• 2 cups (240ml) water (or veggie broth)

• 1 broccoli, cut into florets

• 1 sweet potato, cubbed

• 1 can (15 oz./430g) chickpeas, drained

• 4 cups (270g) kale, roughly chopped

• 4 tbsp. olive oil

• 1/4 cup (5g) fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 cup (30g) feta cheese, crumbled

• 1 lemon, juice only

• 1/2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar

• 2 tbsp. honey

• Chili flakes, to taste

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO:

Preheat oven to 425F(220C).

Cook quinoa according to instructions on the packaging, then set aside in a large bowl. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.

While quinoa is cooking, toss broccoli and sweet potato chunks with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and roast in the oven for 20 minutes. Next, add kale and chickpeas to the roasting pan, and roast for another 15 minutes. Stirring the veggies around halfway through.

Once roasted remove from the oven from and combine with the quinoa. Next, add in the chopped parsley and feta and mix gently.

In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, vinegar, maple syrup and remaining 2 tbsp. of olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste.

Drizzle the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture, and stir gently. Enjoy and store any leftovers in the fridge for 4-5 days.

ENJOY! xo