Are you ready to transform your boring meal routine into a mouthwatering culinary adventure? This garlic lemon quinoa with vegetables isn't just another healthy dish – it's a vibrant, nutrient-packed masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and make your body thank you! Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich quinoa, and a bright lemony kick, this recipe is about to become your new go-to meal that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- While quinoa is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add diced zucchini and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and transfer to the skillet with sautéed vegetables.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss to combine all ingredients.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot as a nutritious vegetarian main dish or side, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Always rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove the natural saponin coating, which can make it taste bitter. Use a fine-mesh strainer for best results.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting the quinoa in the pan with a little olive oil for 1-2 minutes before adding water. This enhances its nutty undertones.
- Don't overcook your vegetables – you want them tender-crisp to maintain nutrition and texture. Keep an eye on your skillet and stir occasionally.
- Fresh lemon juice is key! Bottled lemon juice can't compare to the bright, fresh flavor of a freshly squeezed lemon.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together. This small step can make a huge difference in taste.
- Feel free to customize with additional herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano for an extra flavor boost.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
