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Roasted Leeks, Fennel & Green Garlic with Quinoa and Pecorino

Roasted Leeks, Fennel & Green Garlic Quinoa Salad Magic

A vibrant Roasted Leeks, Fennel & Green Garlic salad, enriched with quinoa and Pecorino, perfect for celebrating spring.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 4 leeks Leeks Adds a milder onion flavor; requires careful cleaning.
  • 1 bulb Fennel Introduces a subtly anise flavor; can use celery if unavailable.
  • 3 stalks Green Garlic Imparts a sweeter garlic essence; substitute with regular garlic.
  • 1 medium Onion Provides sweetness; can use red onion for a sharper taste.
  • 4 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness and aids in roasting; substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1 cup Quinoa Serves as the salad base, offering protein and fluffiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavors; adjust to personal taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds a touch of spice; freshly ground is always best.
  • 1 bunch Fresh Herbs Enhances flavor; use any fresh herbs on hand.
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons Meyer Lemon Juice Adds a bright acidity; regular lemon juice can be used.
For the Topping
  • ½ cup Pecorino Romano Provides a salty, savory finish; parmesan can be used.

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Pan
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

How to Make Roasted Leeks, Fennel & Green Garlic
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure your vegetables roast evenly and become deliciously tender.
  2. Toss leeks in a bowl with 3 tbsp olive oil and 1 tsp salt. Spread them out on baking sheets, ensuring they're in a single layer. Roast for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are golden brown and tender.
  3. Heat the remaining olive oil in a pan over medium heat, adding the onion and ½ tsp salt. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
  4. Stir in the fennel and re-cover for an additional 10 minutes. Then add the green garlic and continue cooking until everything is tender, around 7-10 minutes.
  5. Combine quinoa with ½ tsp salt in a saucepan, cover it with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer until the quinoa is fluffy and tender, approximately 25 minutes.
  6. Mix the cooked quinoa with the onion mixture, roasted leeks, and Meyer lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Transfer the salad to a serving platter. Top with shaved Pecorino, a sprinkle of black pepper, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately for maximum freshness!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Enjoy the vibrant flavors and seasonal goodness. Optional: Serve warm or chilled for a refreshing lunch.

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