Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad with Lentils and Spinach and Chickpeas and Lentils and Spinach and Lentils and Spinach and Lentils and Spinach and Lentils and Spinach

This Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad is a vibrant medley of flavors, featuring protein-packed lentils and chickpeas combined with fresh spinach. It's a satisfying and nutritious midnight dish that will nourish your body and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

• Quinoa - 1 cup
• Water - 2 cups
• Lentils - 1/2 cup
• Chickpeas (canned, rinsed) - 1 cup
• Spinach (fresh) - 2 cups
• Red bell pepper - 1, diced
• Zucchini - 1, diced
• Red onion - 1 small, diced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then combine it with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
3. While the quinoa is cooking, rinse the lentils and place them in a separate pot with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
5. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, lentils, chickpeas, and roasted vegetables. Add the fresh spinach and remaining olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Toss gently to combine.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbs: 65 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein and fiber, promoting satiety and muscle health.
• Rich in antioxidants and vitamins from the vegetables and spinach, supporting overall health.

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