🥗 Celebrate National Fruits & Veggies Month with a Rainbow Veggie & Quinoa Salad

September marks National Fruits & Veggies Month, a month-long celebration that inspires us to enjoy fresh produce in vibrant, delicious ways. With summer fading into fall, it’s the perfect time to bring seasonal fruits and vegetables to your table — and nothing does that better than a Rainbow Veggie & Quinoa Salad.

Packed with crunch, color, and nutrients, this dish is both nutritious and crave-worthy, proving that healthy food can be just as satisfying as indulgent eats.

Why This Recipe?

• Seasonal Produce – September offers late-summer tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, plus early fall squashes and root veggies.

• Nutrient Powerhouse – Quinoa provides plant-based protein while veggies add vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

• Meal-Prep Friendly – Make a big batch and enjoy it for lunches or as a side dish throughout the week.

🌈 Rainbow Veggie & Quinoa Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), diced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
• ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, cooked)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (or lime for zestier flavor)
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, cook quinoa with water or broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa with tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, carrots, red cabbage, and corn.
3. Whisk together the dressing ingredients until emulsified.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Optional: Add chickpeas, avocado slices, or feta cheese for extra protein and creaminess.

🥕 Ways to Celebrate National Fruits & Veggies Month

• Visit your local farmers’ market and let seasonal produce inspire your meals.

• Try adding one new fruit or vegetable you’ve never cooked with before.

• Share your colorful plate on social media with #FruitsAndVeggiesMonth to encourage others to join the movement.

Final Bite

Eating the rainbow has never looked (or tasted) so good. This Rainbow Veggie & Quinoa Salad is proof that healthy food is vibrant, delicious, and endlessly versatile. This September, celebrate National Fruits & Veggies Month by filling your plate with nature’s colors — your body (and taste buds) will thank you! 🌈🥗