Quinoa Salad with Winter Veggies and Buffalo Chicken Sausage

Recipe View In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. (2 minutes)

Recipe View Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly. (15 minutes)

Recipe View While the quinoa is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the buffalo chicken sausage pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. (7 minutes)

Recipe View Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Add the cubed butternut squash and shredded carrots to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-firm and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. If the vegetables start to stick, add a tablespoon of water to the skillet and scrape up any browned bits. (10 minutes)

Recipe View In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.

Recipe View Add the cooked quinoa, browned buffalo chicken sausage, sautéed butternut squash and carrots, and diced red bell pepper to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.

Recipe View Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Recipe View Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. (30 minutes)

Recipe View Before serving, garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.