Smoky Chipotle Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad
Craving something warm, hearty, and packed with flavor? This Smoky Chipotle Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad is a bold, spicy twist on a classic grain bowl. Loaded with roasted sweet potatoes, fluffy quinoa, black beans, and a punchy chipotle vinaigrette, it’s the perfect balance of comfort and freshness.
Whether you’re serving it warm or cold, this dish is satisfying, protein-packed, and meal-prep friendly!
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Roasted Chipotle Sweet Potatoes:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Chipotle Quinoa:
- 1 tbsp oil
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, chopped
- 1 tsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1¾ cups water (or veggie/chicken broth)
For the Chipotle Vinaigrette:
- 3 tbsp avocado or olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar (or lime juice)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp cumin
- ¼ tsp salt & pepper
For the Salad Base:
- 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans, rinsed
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled feta
- ¼ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
Directions
1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
Toss diced sweet potatoes in oil and spices. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for ~20 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and slightly crisp.
2. Cook the Quinoa:
Sauté onions in oil until tender (5-7 min). Add garlic and spices; cook 1 more min. Stir in quinoa and water, bring to a boil, then simmer covered ~15-20 min until fluffy.
3. Make the Vinaigrette:
Whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl or shake in a jar until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Salad:
Layer the quinoa, sweet potatoes, beans, veggies, and toppings. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss. Serve warm or chilled!
Pro Tips
- Meal prep-friendly: Cook potatoes and quinoa ahead of time.
- Want it creamy? Sub the vinaigrette with avocado dressing!
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge up to 3 days.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g (Saturated 2g)
- Carbs: 50g (Fiber 9g, Sugars 7g)
- Protein: 14g
- Sodium: 567mg
- Cholesterol: 7mg
Why You’ll Love It:
Vegan/vegetarian-friendly
Packed with smoky chipotle flavor
High in plant-based protein & fiber