Delicious and Healthy Quinoa Side Dish Recipe

5 stars
4.88 (14)
Delicious and Healthy Quinoa Side Dish Recipe
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
40mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on January 10, 2024

This quinoa side dish is not only delicious, but also packed with nutrients. It's a perfect accompaniment to any meal and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables and spices. With a total preparing time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is quick and easy to make. Whether you're following a vegetarian or gluten-free diet, this quinoa side dish is a great option for you. Try it out and enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil.
  3. Add the rinsed quinoa to the saucepan and reduce the heat to low.
  4. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  5. In the meantime, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  6. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
  7. Add the bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, or until they are tender.
  8. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  9. Sprinkle the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the vegetables and stir to combine.
  10. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the vegetables.
  11. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
  12. Serve the quinoa side dish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Interesting Facts

  • Quinoa is technically not a grain but a seed, making it a suitable option for those on a gluten-free diet.
  • Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids.
  • This quinoa side dish can be easily adapted to include your favorite vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or corn.
  • Leftovers of this quinoa side dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.