Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, vibrant, and nutrient-dense foods that not only taste amazing but also support a healthy metabolism. For those navigating perimenopause, finding the right balance in your diet can make a significant difference in how you feel day-to-day. Today, I’m excited to share a delicious vegetarian summer recipe that my clients love. This dish is packed with ingredients known for their metabolic benefits, making it a fantastic addition to your summer meal plan.
Grilled Veggie and Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing
This Grilled Veggie and Quinoa Salad is not only refreshing and satisfying but also brimming with ingredients that support a healthy metabolism. Let's dive into the recipe and explore how each component contributes to your overall well-being.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
1 cup quinoa
1 zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup chickpeas, cooked and drained
1 avocado, diced
1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:
1/4 cup tahini
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons water (to thin if necessary)
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional for a touch of sweetness)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Quinoa:
Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
In a medium pot, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
Grill the Vegetables:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion slices in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Grill the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Set aside to cool slightly, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Add water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, grilled vegetables, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, avocado, and parsley.
Drizzle the lemon-tahini dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve:
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy as a light summer lunch or a side dish at your next barbecue!
Metabolism-Boosting Benefits
Quinoa: A complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids, quinoa supports muscle repair and growth, which is vital for maintaining a healthy metabolism. It's also rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.
Zucchini and Bell Pepper: These colorful veggies are low in calories but high in vitamins and antioxidants. They provide a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
Chickpeas: Packed with protein and fiber, chickpeas are excellent for promoting satiety and regulating blood sugar. They also contain nutrients like folate and iron, which support overall metabolic health.
Avocado: Rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, avocados help to keep you full and satisfied. They also contain potassium, which is essential for maintaining proper metabolic function.
Tahini: Made from sesame seeds, tahini is a good source of healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc. These nutrients are crucial for energy production and metabolic health.
Lemon: Lemon juice aids in digestion and can help to detoxify the liver, an organ that plays a significant role in metabolism. Its high vitamin C content also supports the immune system.
Join the Metabolic Renewal Program
Enjoying nutritious and delicious meals like this Grilled Veggie and Quinoa Salad is just one part of maintaining a healthy metabolism during perimenopause. If you're looking for a comprehensive approach to transform your health, consider joining my Metabolic Renewal program.
This 12-week program is designed to help you reset your metabolism, lose stubborn weight, and regain your energy and confidence. Through personalized coaching, expert-led sessions, and practical tools, you’ll learn how to make sustainable changes that fit your unique needs.
Ready to take the next step in your health journey? Book a free discovery call today and find out how the Metabolic Renewal program can help you achieve your wellness goals.
Comments