Miso Maple Roasted Carrot and Quinoa Salad
Sweet roasted carrots mingle with nutty quinoa in a tangy miso maple dressing, creating a vibrant and wholesome salad.
Total: 45 minPrep: 15 minCook: 30 minServes 4Difficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp miso paste
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss carrots with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- 2 Meanwhile, combine quinoa and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes. Let stand covered for 5 minutes.
- 3 Whisk together maple syrup, miso paste, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and remaining olive oil in a small bowl.
- 4 In a large bowl, combine roasted carrots and cooked quinoa. Drizzle with the miso maple dressing and toss to combine.
- 5 Sprinkle with sesame seeds and parsley. Add feta cheese if using.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
Variations
- Swap quinoa for farro for a chewy texture.
- Add roasted chickpeas for a hearty protein boost.
Substitutions
- Use honey instead of maple syrup for a similar sweetness.
- Substitute coconut aminos for miso paste to keep it gluten-free.
Pairings
- Grilled chicken
- Sesame ginger tofu
- Crispy wontons
Nutrition
Calories:
350 kcal
Fat:
15g fat
Carbs:
45g carbohydrates
Protein:
10g protein
Fiber:
6g fiber
Sugar:
12g sugar
Sodium:
400mg sodium
Tips
- For extra flavor, toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan before sprinkling.
- Add a handful of roasted nuts for extra crunch.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or enjoy cold.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairs well with a simple arugula salad or grilled tofu steaks.
- Serve with a side of steamed edamame for extra protein.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it up to a day ahead and store in the fridge. Add the dressing just before serving for the best texture.