Quinoa Veggie Salad
Description
The Quinoa Veggie Salad is a nutrient-dense, plant-based recipe, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. Quinoa is a complete protein source, meaning it provides all essential amino acids, making it ideal for vegetarian or vegan diets. The addition of colorful vegetables like carrots, beetroot, and leafy greens provides a range of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fibre. Pine nuts add a small amount of healthy fats, and any dressing should be used in moderation to control fat content.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Quinoa: A complete protein source, quinoa provides all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent plant-based protein option. It's also rich in fibre, which supports digestive health, and contains magnesium, iron, and B-vitamins that help with energy production and muscle function.
- Carrots: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A), which is vital for eye health and immune function. They are also a good source of dietary fibre, contributing to digestive health.
- Leafy Greens: These greens are low in calories but packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, and they offer a good amount of antioxidants and fibreto support overall health.
- Beetroot: Beetroot provides antioxidants and nitrates, which may help improve blood flow and cardiovascular health. It's also a good source of folate and potassium.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which may have heart-protective properties.
- Cucumbers: Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, containing a decent amount of fibre, vitamins K and C, and various minerals.
- Pine Nuts: These nuts are high in healthy fats, especially heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. They also provide a small amount of protein and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.
- Red Capsicum (Bell Pepper): Red capsicum is an excellent source of vitamin C, providing more than 100% of your daily requirement in just one serving. It's also high in antioxidants, fibre, and vitamin A, which supports skin and eye health.
Ingredients
Hummus dressing
Method:
-
Prepare the veggies:
- On a clean chopping board, dice tomatoes, carrot, red capsicum and cucumber and place them in a medium salad bowl.
- Peel and shred the medium carrot over the salad bowl.
-
Lets prepare the dressing:
- Combine all ingredients and mix well.
-
Assemble the bowl:
- Combine the cooked quinoa and vegetables and add the dressing of choice. Remember to add the dressing in moderation.
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 222kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Total Carbohydrate 31g11%
- Dietary Fiber 10g40%
- Protein 7.5g15%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.