Zesty Southwest Quinoa and Sweet Potato Salad
Elevate your meal prep with this vibrant Zesty Southwest Quinoa and Sweet Potato Salad! This delightful dish combines protein-packed quinoa with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, creamy avocado, and crunchy red peppers. Tossed in a zesty lime and chili dressing, it’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a great way to nourish your body. Perfect for a light lunch, hearty dinner, or as a part of a potluck spread, this salad is sure to impress. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
N/A
Servings
135
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
quinoa
1 cup (rinsed)
sweet potato
1 lb (peeled and diced)
avocado
1 (diced)
red pepper
1/2 cup (diced)
shallot
1/4 cup (minced)
fresh cilantro
1/4 cup (chopped)
olive oil
3 tablespoons (none)
lime juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
chili powder
1/2 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
pumpkin seeds
1/4 cup (toasted)
Instructions
1
Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer to remove any bitterness.
2
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
3
While the quinoa is cooking, bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Add the diced sweet potato and cook for about 12 minutes, until tender but firm. Drain and set aside to cool.
4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sweet potato, diced avocado, red pepper, minced shallot, and chopped cilantro, mixing gently to combine without mashing the avocado.
5
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
6
Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.
7
Sprinkle the toasted pumpkin seeds on top before serving. Enjoy fresh!
Nutrition Information
7g
Fat
3g
Protein
3g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Southwest Quinoa and Sweet Potato Salad?
It is a vibrant, nutrient-dense salad featuring protein-packed quinoa, sweet potatoes, avocado, and a zesty lime and chili dressing.
Is this salad recipe vegan?
Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based, making it 100% vegan.
Is the Zesty Southwest Quinoa Salad gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa and the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 135 calories per serving.
How much protein is in this dish?
Each serving contains 3g of protein.
What is the fat content per serving?
This salad contains 7g of fat per serving.
How much fiber does this salad provide?
Each serving provides 3g of dietary fiber.
How do I prepare the quinoa?
Rinse 1 cup of quinoa, then simmer it in 2 cups of water for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed.
How long should the sweet potatoes cook?
The diced sweet potatoes should be boiled for about 12 minutes until they are tender but still firm.
Why should I rinse the quinoa?
Rinsing removes the natural coating called saponin, which can make quinoa taste bitter.
What ingredients are in the dressing?
The dressing is made of olive oil, fresh lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
What adds a crunch to this salad?
Toasted pumpkin seeds and diced red peppers provide a satisfying crunch.
Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is excellent for meal prep as it holds up well and can be eaten for lunch or dinner.
What type of onion is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of minced shallot.
How much lime juice is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice.
What kind of pepper is included?
The salad includes 1/2 cup of diced red pepper.
How do I prevent the avocado from mashing?
Mix the salad gently after adding the diced avocado to keep the pieces intact.
What spice gives it a Southwest flavor?
Chili powder is the primary spice used to provide the Southwest flavor profile.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 total ingredients in this recipe.
Is this salad suitable for a potluck?
Yes, it is a colorful and hearty dish that serves well at potlucks and gatherings.
What is the preparation for the sweet potato?
The sweet potato should be peeled and diced before boiling.
Should the pumpkin seeds be raw?
The recipe recommends using toasted pumpkin seeds for better flavor and texture.
Can I substitute the cilantro?
If you dislike cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley or green onions.
How much olive oil is used in the dressing?
The dressing uses 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
Is this a light or heavy meal?
It is described as a light lunch or a hearty dinner side.
Can I add extra protein?
Yes, black beans or grilled tofu would be excellent additions for extra protein.
Is the chili powder very spicy?
At 1/2 teaspoon, it provides a mild warmth rather than intense heat.
How do I know when the quinoa is done?
Quinoa is done when all the water is absorbed and it can be fluffed easily with a fork.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The specific serving size is not specified, but the ingredient amounts suggest 2-4 servings.
How should I serve this salad?
It is best enjoyed fresh, topped with toasted pumpkin seeds right before serving.