Quinoa Butternut Squash Salad
Quinoa Butternut Squash Salad
with macerona almonds, red onions, and ParsleyQuinoa is a nutritious whole grain that is high in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. It is also gluten-free and has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for people with gluten intolerance or diabetes. Additionally, quinoa contains antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds that have been linked to various health benefits, such as improved blood sugar control, heart health, and digestion. In addition, butternut squash is low in calories but high in many nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 small butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For the dressing-
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
- ½ lemon, freshly squeezed
- Salt and cayenne pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Peel the butternut squash, remove the seeds, and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Toss the cubes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
- While the squash is roasting, rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. Bring the quinoa and 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted butternut squash, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, crumbled feta, andchopped parsley.
- To make the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, seasoned rice vinegar, lemon, salt, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve the salad warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!Remember, you can always adjust the ingredients according toyour taste.