Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Oh honey, I've been there when the fridge is looking bare. While fresh veggies give the best texture, frozen will work in a pinch. Just thaw and pat them dry really well before roasting - otherwise they'll steam instead of getting those delicious crispy edges. Expect slightly softer results, but the flavor will still be great.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

In my house? Maybe a day if I'm lucky. But seriously, stored properly in an airtight container, it keeps beautifully for 3 days. The flavors actually improve as they mingle. Just give it a quick stir before serving - sometimes I add an extra squeeze of lemon to brighten it up after refrigeration.

Can I make this salad ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely - it's one of my favorite make-ahead lunches. I often double the recipe on Sundays. Pro tip: keep the dressing (lemon juice) separate until you're ready to eat if prepping more than a day ahead. The quinoa and veggies stay perfect, and adding the lemon juice fresh keeps everything bright and vibrant. For more meal prep ideas, see my guide on make ahead quinoa salad jars .

Why does my quinoa turn out mushy?

Oh, I feel your pain - been there. Two key things: 1) Always rinse your quinoa thoroughly (that bitter coating is no joke), and 2) Don't peek while it's cooking. Lifting the lid lets steam escape and messes with the cooking time. Stick to the 15-minute simmer and fluff immediately with a fork - perfect quinoa every time.

Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Of course, While quinoa is my favorite for its protein punch, I've successfully used farro (chewier texture), couscous (lighter feel), and even brown rice. Just adjust cooking times accordingly. The roasted veggies and lemon-parsley dressing work with almost any grain you've got on hand. If you're interested in other ways to use this grain, try this one pot chicken and quinoa recipe .

1 Perfect Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad You'll Crave -

Name: 1 Perfect Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad You'll Crave
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups water; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red onion, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 lemon, juiced

1 Perfect Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad You’ll Crave

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A nutritious and flavorful quinoa salad packed with roasted vegetables, perfect for a healthy lunch or make-ahead meal.

Author: RecipeZest
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Salad
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red onion, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, juiced

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes.
Rinse quinoa and cook in water for 15 minutes or until fluffy.
Mix cooked quinoa with roasted vegetables.
Add fresh parsley and lemon juice. Toss well.
Serve warm or chilled.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Add feta cheese for extra flavor.
Substitute any vegetables you prefer.

Find it online: https://recipeszest.com/quinoa-and-roasted-vegetable-salad-recipe/