Harvest Quinoa Salad: Your Perfect Transition to Fall

on September 05, 2023

As we bid farewell to the warmth of summer and embrace the crispness in the air, there's no better time to transition your meals to suit the changing seasons. Fall brings a bountiful harvest of vegetables and flavors that can be both delicious and incredibly nutritious for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. One delightful way to welcome the autumnal breeze is with our "Harvest Quinoa Salad." This recipe not only celebrates the season's offerings but also provides essential nutrients to keep you at your best as the weather gradually cools down.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

1 cup of quinoa, rinsed and cooked according to package instructions
2 cups of mixed greens (spinach, kale, arugula)
1 cup of roasted sweet potatoes, cubed
1 cup of roasted butternut squash, cubed
1 cup of Brussels sprouts, halved and roasted
1/2 cup of dried cranberries
1/2 cup of pecans or walnuts, toasted
1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional for added protein and flavor)

For the Maple Dijon Dressing:

3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Prepare the Roasted Vegetables:

As the days grow cooler, the warmth of your oven becomes inviting. Preheat it to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the cubed sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and halved Brussels sprouts in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Place them on a baking sheet and let the oven work its magic for 25-30 minutes, until they're tender and slightly caramelized. The aroma will be the epitome of fall comfort.

2. Cook the Quinoa:

As you await the roasted vegetables, take a moment to simmer some quinoa. Rinse it thoroughly and let it cook in a saucepan. The nutty scent and warmth will fill your kitchen.

3. Toast the Nuts:

In a dry skillet over medium heat, let the pecans or walnuts toast. The fragrance will remind you of autumn's essence.

4. Prepare the Maple Dijon Dressing:

Whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. The sweetness of maple syrup mirrors the falling leaves.

5. Assemble the Salad:

In a spacious salad bowl, bring together the cooked quinoa, mixed greens, roasted vegetables, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts.
If you crave a little protein and depth of flavor, sprinkle on some crumbled feta cheese.
Drizzle the maple Dijon dressing over the salad and give it a gentle toss. The combination of colors and textures is a feast for the senses.

6. Serve and Savor:

Divide the salad into individual bowls and savor the essence of autumn with every bite.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for the Changing Seasons:

As the weather starts to change in the next month, this Harvest Quinoa Salad is the ideal companion for several reasons:

Warm and Comforting: The roasted vegetables offer a comforting warmth, perfect for cooler days.
Nutrient-Packed: Fall vegetables are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, helping to boost your immune system as the seasons shift.
Balanced Nutrition: Quinoa provides complex carbohydrates and complete protein for sustained energy, while nuts and cheese offer healthy fats and additional protein.
Autumn Flavors: The maple Dijon dressing captures the essence of fall, with its sweet maple undertones and tangy Dijon mustard.

So, as you cozy up and prepare for the changing weather, let this Harvest Quinoa Salad be your culinary transition into autumn. It's a celebration of flavors and nourishment that will keep you vibrant and energized as you embrace the beauty of the season ahead. Enjoy the natural abundance of fall with each delicious forkful!