Quinoa (keen-wah) is an ancient, higher protein grain that has gained popularity in more recent years. Roasted eggplant (aubergine or brinjal) absorbs the flavours, and is paired with crunchy quinoa, baby spinach, tomatoes, creamy feta and a sprinkle of toasted sunflower seeds then drizzled with a homemade honey and mustard dressing, making this salad packed with nutrition. This roasted brinjal salad is easy to make and can be a vegetarian main or side dish in spring and summer. Simple, delicious, and full of good stuff
This vibrant Summery Quinoa Salad is packed with fresh flavours and textures, making it a perfect side dish for any summer meal. Roasted eggplant adds a smoky sweetness, while quinoa provides a satisfying protein punch. Cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and red onion bring pops of colour and freshness, and the whole dish is tied together with a light and tangy dressing. Topped with crumbed feta cheese and toasted sunflower seeds for added richness and crunch, this salad is sure to impress!
Prep time 15 minutes
Cooking time 30 minutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
Directions
Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 large eggplants, cut into 2 cm cubes
30ml (2 Tbsp) olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
200g baby spinach
250ml (1 cup) quinoa, cooked
250g cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ red onion, finely chopped
125ml (1/2 cup) feta, crumbled
30ml (2 Tbsp) sunflower seeds, toasted
For the Dressing:
60ml (1/4 cup) olive oil
30ml (2 Tbsp) lemon juice
10ml (2 tsp) honey
5ml (1 tsp) whole grain mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
For the Salad:
Preheat your oven to 180°C. Place the cubed eggplant on a roasting tray and drizzle with the olive oil and seasoning. Rub the oil into the eggplant and roast for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
In a large serving dish, layer the baby spinach, quinoa, cherry tomatoes, roasted eggplant, red onion, and crumbled feta. Finish with a drizzle of the dressing and a sprinkle of the toasted sunflower seeds.
For the Dressing:
In a medium sized bowl, combine all the ingredients together and mix well.
Additional Notes
What else can I make with aubergines (brinjals or eggplant?)
To start, learn all about aubergines, what they are and how to cook them, read this Aubergine 101 article. And if you already love a brinjal, then try out some of these tasty recipes: