Description
As a busy weeknight unfolds, the aroma of a bubbling pot conjures memories of family dinners where each bite is like a warm hug. In those moments, I often find myself reaching for a quinoa side dish, a versatile staple that can elevate any meal. This nutrient-dense grain not only cooks quickly but also adapts to whatever flavors you’re in the mood for, making it a perfect fit for those craving a quick weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Imagine the vibrant colors of a fresh garden salad mixed with fluffy quinoa, creating a dish that’s as beautiful as it is nourishing. This quinoa side dish is a true meal-prep friendly gem, allowing you to whip up a healthy comfort food option that awaits you after a long day. With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll discover that enjoying homemade, wholesome meals doesn’t have to be complicated. So, let’s dive into the recipe that will add flair to your dinner table and keep your taste buds dancing!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup bell peppers
- 1 cup zucchini
- 1/2 cup red onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove its bitterness. Use a fine-mesh strainer and rub the seeds gently with your fingers for about 30 seconds. This step is crucial for a delightful taste!
- Boil 2 cups of water in a pot and add 1 cup of rinsed quinoa. Stir it gently to combine, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains once it’s cooked. This will give your quinoa a light, airy texture, making it perfect as a side dish!
- Sauté any desired vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and vibrant in color.
- Combine the sautéed vegetables with the quinoa in a large mixing bowl. Stir in salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs to enhance the flavor. You can also add a squeeze of lemon for brightness!
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. This adds a refreshing touch and beautiful color to your quinoa side dish. Enjoy!
Notes
- Rinse Well: Always rinse quinoa before cooking to remove its natural bitterness. This simple step enhances the flavor significantly.
- Cook Time Care: Watch your cooking time closely; overcooked quinoa turns mushy. Aim for a fluffy texture by cooking for about 15 minutes.
- Flavor Infusions: Cook quinoa in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor. This enhancement elevates a simple quinoa side dish into a star.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro after cooking. This addition brightens flavors and adds a delightful pop of color.
- Storage Smart: Store leftover quinoa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It’s perfect for quick meal prep later in the week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Quinoa Side Dish, quick weeknight dinner, meal-prep friendly