Go Back
+ servings
vibrant quinoa beet salad

Quinoa and Beet Salad

This colorful quinoa beet salad combines earthy roasted beets with fluffy quinoa, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta for a nutritious meal that's as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect as a light lunch or hearty side dish, this protein-packed salad is naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable to your taste preferences.
No ratings yet
Print Pin Save
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Calories: 285kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups quinoa
  • 1 medium beet roasted or boiled
  • 1 cup chopped red pepper or celery
  • ½ cup chopped cilantro or parsley
  • ½ cup vegan feta or dairy feta
  • ½ cup chopped green onion
  • ¼ cup pumpkin seeds or nuts
  • 1 large handful of greens arugula or kale
  • 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice or ginger lime dressing
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  • Cook quinoa in salted water according to package directions until fluffy; set aside to cool completely.
  • Roast beet at 400°F wrapped in foil for 45 minutes, or boil until tender. Let cool, then peel and dice.
  • In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, diced beet, chopped red pepper or celery, herbs, and green onion.
  • Add greens, pumpkin seeds, and feta to the bowl.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice or ginger lime dressing.
  • Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
  • Season with salt to taste.
  • Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1 hour to chill before serving.

Notes

Cook quinoa and beets up to 2 days ahead and store in refrigerator for quick assembly
Substitute goat cheese, blue cheese, or omit cheese entirely for vegan option
Add dried cranberries, chopped apples, or pomegranate seeds for extra sweetness
Try different nuts like walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for variety
Massage kale with a little olive oil if using for more tender greens
Salad keeps well in refrigerator for up to 3 days
For meal prep, store dressing separately and add just before serving

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 285mg | Potassium: 475mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 8g