As I rummaged through my fridge, contemplating dinner, I stumbled upon a bag of Brussels sprouts just begging for a spotlight. That moment sparked the creation of my Hearty Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Quinoa Salad with Spicy Vegan Caesar Dressing. This vibrant dish showcases roasted Brussels sprouts mingling with protein-packed quinoa and hearty lentils, all tied together with a zesty, spicy dressing that wakes up your taste buds. A true winter warmer, this salad is not just quick and easy to prepare—it’s a wholesome meal that’ll leave you feeling satisfied and guilt-free. Whether you’re looking to break free from fast food monotony or whip up a delightful dish for a gathering, this salad is sure to be a hit. Curious how to bring it all together? Let’s dive into this comforting recipe!
Why is this salad so irresistible?
Hearty, satisfying goodness: With protein-packed quinoa and lentils, this salad fills you up without weighing you down.
Bold, spicy flavor: The tangy, spicy vegan Caesar dressing gives each bite a delightful kick that your taste buds will crave.
Quick and easy preparation: Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week.
Versatile and customizable: Mix and match ingredients like roasted sweet potatoes or kale to keep things fresh and exciting.
Perfect for any occasion: This salad is not just a side dish; it shines as a main meal or at gatherings, impressing everyone at the table. Explore other nutritious options like this Chicken Salad Any for variety!
Brussels Sprouts, Quinoa Ingredients
• Get ready to create a nourishing salad!
For the Salad
- Quinoa – A hearty base that adds protein and keeps you feeling full.
- Cooked Lentils – Adds even more protein and texture; canned works great for convenience.
- Brussels Sprouts – Roasted for sweetness and a delightful crunch.
- Pickled Red Onions – Introduces brightness and tang to balance the flavors.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Offers a touch of sweetness and depth to the salad.
- Toasted Sunflower Seeds – Adds a satisfying crunch; optional but recommended.
- Chopped Parsley or Chives – For a final fresh touch; adds color and flavor.
For the Dressing
- Raw Cashews – Blends into a creamy dressing; substitute with sunflower seeds for nut-free.
- Garlic (Fresh) – Adds aromatic depth to the dressing; fresh is best!
- Nutritional Yeast – Gives that cheesy flavor without dairy, perfect for a vegan take.
- Capers – Provides a briny kick in the dressing that pairs well with the salad.
- Lemon Juice – Balances the richness with a bright acidity.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy depth that enhances the overall flavor.
- Vegan Worcestershire Sauce – Infuses umami goodness; Tamari is a gluten-free alternative.
- Hot Sauce – For that spicy twist; adjust based on your heat preference.
- Olive Oil – Richness for roasting and dressing; a must-have in your kitchen.
- Water – Thins the dressing to the perfect consistency; add gradually.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder – Seasonings that heighten the dish’s flavor; opt for fresh if you prefer!
- Sea Salt & Ground Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing overall taste; season to your liking.
This hearty Brussels Sprouts, Quinoa & Lentil Salad will tantalize your taste buds with its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Quinoa Salad with Spicy Vegan Caesar Dressing
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving beautifully roasted Brussels sprouts that are crispy on the outside while staying tender inside. Make sure your oven is fully heated before you move on to prepare the veggies, so they roast evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Quinoa
In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with vegetable stock to infuse it with flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. The quinoa should be fluffy—check for a little curl in the grains when it’s done!
Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
While the quinoa cooks, halve the Brussels sprouts and toss them with olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they are not crowded. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fork-tender, with a delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Make the Spicy Caesar Dressing
In a blender, combine the soaked raw cashews, fresh garlic, nutritional yeast, capers, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, vegan Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, water, salt, and pepper. Blend until the dressing is completely smooth and creamy. Adjust the thickness by adding more water if needed; it should have a pourable consistency that clings just right to your salad.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, roasted Brussels sprouts, and cooked lentils. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine and ensure even distribution. Drizzle your homemade spicy Caesar dressing over the salad, using as much as you like, and mix again until everything is well coated.
Step 6: Add Toppings
To finish off your hearty Brussels Sprouts, Quinoa & Lentil Salad, add the pickled red onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and toasted sunflower seeds for delightful crunch and flavor. If desired, sprinkle with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your salad immediately while the Brussels sprouts are still warm, or chill it slightly in the refrigerator if preferred. This vibrant dish can be enjoyed as a satisfying main course or a lively side, packed with nutrition and flavor to delight everyone at the table!
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Quinoa Salad with Spicy Vegan Caesar Dressing are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the quinoa and lentils up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The Brussels sprouts can be roasted up to 24 hours before serving; just be sure to reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness. For the dressing, blend and refrigerate it overnight for the best flavors. When ready to serve, simply combine the components and drizzle with the dressing for a speedy yet satisfying meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Hearty Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Quinoa Salad?
This delightful salad pairs beautifully with various sides and drinks that enhance your meal experience, making every bite even more memorable.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of buttery mashed potatoes balances the tangy kick of the salad, creating a comforting duo.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy and warm, these breadsticks add a satisfying texture alongside the salad, perfect for scooping up delicious dressing!
Roasted Vegetable Medley: Seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil provide a colorful side that complements the roasted Brussels sprouts and adds extra vitamins.
Fresh Green Beans: Lightly steamed or sautéed green beans add a crisp, fresh element, making for an uplifting contrast to the hearty salad.
Savory Grilled Tofu Steaks: Marinated and grilled to perfection, the tofu serves as a protein-rich companion, enhancing the heartiness of your meal.
Lemon Rosemary Quinoa: Adding another layer of flavor, this fragrant quinoa complements the main dish, turning your plate into a hearty grain feast.
Crisp Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a zingy dressing provides a bright and crunchy balance to the warm, roasted salad.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink to cleanse your palate, sparkling water is a delightful way to enjoy your meal without overpowering the flavors.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: This decadent yet healthy dessert finishes your meal on a sweet note, blending rich chocolate with creamy avocado for a luscious treat.
Brussels Sprouts, Quinoa Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious salad and explore different flavors and textures!
- Kale Twist: Substitute kale or napa cabbage for Brussels sprouts for a different leafy base that holds up beautifully.
- Sweet Potato Addition: For a touch of sweetness, mix in roasted sweet potatoes; their creamy texture perfectly complements the salad.
- Nut-Free Dressing: Use tahini instead of cashews in the dressing for a nut-free alternative that’s equally creamy and flavorful.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in some crispy chickpeas for additional texture and protein; they make an excellent topping!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a refreshing taste that uplifts every bite.
- Spicy Heat: Amp up the heat by adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing for those who crave spice.
- Cheesy Flavor Boost: Sprinkle in some hemp seeds or vegan parmesan for an extra burst of cheesy goodness without dairy.
- Mediterranean Vibes: Add olives and feta (or vegan feta) for a Mediterranean twist that pairs perfectly with the zesty dressing.
For more delightful combinations, check out my recipes for Egg Salad Dish or explore the fulfilling Chicken Salad Any for more delicious meal ideas!
How to Store and Freeze Brussels Sprouts, Quinoa & Lentil Salad
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, keep the spicy Caesar dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Freezer: You can freeze the quinoa and lentil mixture separately, but it’s best to avoid freezing the roasted Brussels sprouts, as they’ll lose their crunch. Consume within 2 months for optimal quality.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the quinoa and lentils in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water to keep everything moist and fluffy.
Meal Prep: Prepare components ahead of time and store them separately. Combine just before serving for a fresh and vibrant Brussels Sprouts, Quinoa & Lentil Salad experience.
Expert Tips for Your Brussels Sprouts Salad
Soak Cashews Properly: Ensure raw cashews are soaked for at least 2 hours to achieve a creamy dressing texture. This step is crucial for a smooth, indulgent dressing.
Season to Taste: Always taste the spicy Caesar dressing before serving. Adjust the salt, lemon juice, and hot sauce to match your personal preference for a well-balanced flavor profile.
Use Wide Bowls: Opt for a large mixing bowl when tossing the salad. This prevents ingredients from falling out and allows for an even coating of the dressing on the Brussels sprouts and quinoa.
Exciting Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap in different greens like kale or add roasted sweet potatoes for a unique spin on your Brussels Sprouts, Quinoa & Lentil Salad.
Separate for Storage: When storing leftovers, keep the spicy dressing separate from the salad ingredients. This keeps the Brussels sprouts and lentils crunchy and fresh for up to three days.
Hearty Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Quinoa Salad with Spicy Caesar Dressing Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for firm, compact heads with vibrant green color. Avoid any with dark spots or yellow leaves, as those can indicate overripeness. Fresh Brussels sprouts should feel heavy for their size.
How should I store leftovers?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend keeping the spicy Caesar dressing separate to maintain the salad’s delightful crunch. Just before serving, drizzle it over and give it a gentle toss for that fresh, vibrant taste!
Can I freeze this salad?
While you can freeze the quinoa and lentil mixture for up to 2 months, I advise against freezing the roasted Brussels sprouts. They tend to lose their wonderful crunch when thawed. For best results, combine fresh ingredients right before serving and enjoy that delightful texture!
My dressing didn’t come out creamy enough. What should I do?
Very! If your dressing is not creamy, it might be due to insufficient soaking of the cashews. Ensure they soak for at least 2 hours before blending for that smooth texture. If it’s still too thick, add a bit more water—one tablespoon at a time—until you reach the desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed!
Is this salad suitable for someone with nut allergies?
Yes! If you’re preparing this salad for someone with nut allergies, you can easily substitute the raw cashews in the dressing with sunflower seeds or tahini. These alternatives will keep the creamy texture while ensuring it’s safe for those with nut sensitivities.
How can I enhance the flavor of the quinoa in this salad?
To amp up the flavor of your quinoa, cook it in vegetable stock instead of water. This little adjustment can elevate the taste significantly. Add an aromatic bay leaf or a few garlic cloves during the cooking process for an extra layer of flavor. Don’t forget to fluff it with a fork for the best texture after cooking!
Brussels Sprouts, Quinoa & Lentil Salad with Spicy Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) for crispy Brussels sprouts.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with vegetable stock, bring to a boil, then simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
- Halve Brussels sprouts, toss with olive oil, spices, and roast for 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Blend soaked cashews, garlic, nutritional yeast, capers, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, water, salt, and pepper until smooth to make the dressing.
- In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, roasted Brussels sprouts, and lentils. Drizzle with spicy Caesar dressing and toss well.
- Top with pickled red onions, sun-dried tomatoes, sunflower seeds, and fresh herbs.
- Serve immediately or chill slightly before serving as a main or side dish.