🥗 Autumn Quinoa Harvest Salad

When the seasons shift, our bodies naturally crave meals that feel grounding, colorful, and nutrient-dense. This Autumn Quinoa Harvest Salad blends the brightness of summer produce with cozy fall ingredients, creating the perfect in-between-season dish. Quinoa provides plant-based protein and essential amino acids, while veggies like broccoli, tomatoes, and sweet corn deliver antioxidants that support immunity during cooler months. Light, refreshing, and full of texture, this salad is ideal for meal prep, lunches, or a quick wholesome dinner.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, lightly steamed or roasted
  • 1 cup sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or roasted)
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup pumpkin seeds (seasonal touch!)
  • ½ cup roasted butternut squash (optional but highly recommended for fall flavor)

Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt + pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the quinoa: Bring quinoa and water/broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until fluffy. Let cool.
  2. Prep your veggies:
    • Lightly steam or roast the broccoli.
    • If using butternut squash, roast it at 400°F for 20 minutes with a bit of olive oil.
  3. Mix the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, tomatoes, broccoli, corn, onion, avocado, pumpkin seeds, and roasted squash if using.
  5. Toss + serve: Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently. Serve chilled or room temperature.

Why This Recipe Is Healthy 🍂

  • Quinoa → High in complete protein, fiber, magnesium, and iron.
  • Broccoli & tomatoes → Packed with antioxidants, vitamins C & K, and immune-supporting phytonutrients.
  • Avocado → Healthy fats for brain + heart health.
  • Pumpkin seeds → Seasonal superfood rich in zinc, magnesium, and plant-based omega-3s.
  • Apple cider vinegar dressing → Supports digestion and adds a seasonal tangy touch.

This Autumn Quinoa Harvest Salad is proof that healthy eating doesn’t need to be complicated. With vibrant veggies, warm fall flavors, and nutrient-rich ingredients, it's a feel-good dish you’ll want to make all season long. Perfect for weeknight meals, potlucks, or prepping ahead for healthy lunches, this salad brings together the best of both summer freshness and autumn comfort.