This Quinoa and Lentil Salad with Butternut Squash is tasty and good for you. It's full of protein, fiber, and vitamins. This dish is great for a healthy lunch or a tasty side dish at dinner. When you mix quinoa, lentils, and roasted butternut squash, you get a colorful and filling salad that will please your taste buds and keep you full.
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained. 1/2 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed. 2 cups diced butternut squash. 1 red bell pepper, diced. 1/2 red onion, finely chopped. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped. 1/4 cup olive oil. 2 tablespoons lemon juice. 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions: In a large saucepan, combine quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool. In a separate saucepan, combine lentils and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and let them cool. Preheat your oven to 400F 200C. Place the diced butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. Let it cool. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, lentils, roasted butternut squash, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, fresh parsley, and fresh cilantro. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the quinoa and lentil salad with butternut squash at room temperature or chilled. Enjoy!