Maple Dijon Harvest Quinoa Salad

SALADS

Nov 16

Packed with roasted squash, crispy lentils, and a light yet flavorful maple Dijon vinaigrette, this Maple Dijon Harvest Quinoa Salad is the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It’s a nourishing, hearty dish that makes a vibrant addition to any meal, whether for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

🍽 Servings: 4 🕓 Prep Time: 15 mins 🕓 Cook Time: 25-30 mins

INGREDIENTS

Roasted Squash
◦ 1 small squash (I used Sweet Dumpling for a sweeter taste), grossly chopped
◦ 1 tbsp avocado oil
◦ 2 tbsp maple syrup
◦ 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
◦ 1 tsp dried thyme
◦ 1/2 tsp salt
◦ 1/4 tsp black pepper

Crispy Lentils
◦ 1 can 19oz lentils, drained and rinsed
◦ 1 tsp avocado oil
◦ 1 tsp nutritionnal yeast
◦ 1/2 tsp paprika

Salad
◦ 2 cups quinoa, cooked
◦ 4 cups kale, chopped, stem removed and massaged with oil
◦ 1 large carrot, grated
◦ 1/2 medium red onion, thinely sliced
◦ 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

Maple Dijon Vinaigrette
◦ 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
◦ Juice 1/2 lemon
◦ 2 tbsp dijon mustard
◦ 1 tbsp old style dijon mustard (wholegrain)
◦ 2 tbsp maple syrup
◦ 1 tsp dried thyme
◦ 1/2 tsp salt
◦ 1/4 tsp black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 400F.

2. In a large bowl, add the chopped squash, the oil and the spices. Mix until everything is well coated. Spread the squash evenly on a large baking tray. Set aside.

3. With a cloth, pat dry the lentils to remove any excess moisture. Add the lentils on another baking tray, then add the oil and the spices and mix until combined.

4. Bake the squash and the lentils in the center of the oven for about 25-30 minutes.

5. In a small jar, add the ingredients for the vinaigrette. Close the lid and mix to combine. Set aside.

6. In a large bowl, add all the ingredients for the salad, the crispy lentils and the roasted squash. Top with the vinaigrette and mix with wooden spoon to combine everything.

7. Divide into 4 servings.

Refrigerate up to 4 days.

🌱 Enjoy every bite,

Martina.

NUTRITION FACTS

✦ Per serving: 18g of protein & 14g of fiber.

✦ Squash, especially varieties like Sweet Dumpling, contains beta-carotene and other carotenoids, which act as powerful antioxidants, protecting the body from oxidative stress and supporting eye health.

✦ Lentils are packed with both soluble and insoluble fiber, which promotes digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and supports heart health by reducing cholesterol.

✦ Lentils have a low glycemic index, which means they help stabilize blood sugar levels, making them an ideal choice for people with diabetes or anyone looking to maintain steady energy levels.

✦ Pumpkin seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of magnesium, a mineral vital for muscle function, nerve function, energy production, and bone health.

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Salads