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Quinoa Squash Broccoli Salad Recipe

4.6 from 92 reviews

A fresh, nutritious Quinoa Squash Broccoli Salad featuring fluffy quinoa combined with roasted or steamed squash and broccoli, tossed in a light, tangy dressing. Perfect as a healthy side or light meal packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein.

Ingredients

Scale

Grains

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth

Vegetables

  • 2 cups diced butternut squash (about 1 small squash)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While quinoa cooks, steam or roast the diced squash and broccoli florets until tender but still crisp, about 7-10 minutes steaming or 20 minutes roasting at 400°F (200°C).
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Combine Salad: In a large bowl, toss the cooked quinoa with the warm or cooled squash and broccoli. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat evenly.
  5. Serve: Serve the salad warm or chilled as a nutritious meal or side dish.

Notes

  • For added protein, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to enhance flavor.
  • Roasting the vegetables adds a caramelized depth; steaming maintains vibrant color and nutrients.
  • The salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • To make it vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

Keywords: quinoa salad, squash salad, broccoli salad, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, gluten free, plant based