Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly marries Southern comfort with a healthy twist? Introducing the Cajun Butternut Squash Quinoa Bowl—a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients! In just 40 minutes, you can whip up this delightful bowl that features roasted butternut squash, fluffy quinoa, and fresh greens, all brought to life with a kick of Cajun seasoning. Whether you're looking for a satisfying lunch or a light dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into the deliciousness and discover how to make this mouthwatering bowl that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 medium butternut squash, diced
- 1 tsp cajun seasoning
- 2 cups spinach
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Olive oil for roasting
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- Peel and dice the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes. Toss squash cubes with olive oil, cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until evenly coated.
- Spread seasoned squash cubes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until edges are golden and squash is tender.
- While squash roasts, halve the cherry tomatoes and roughly chop the spinach.
- Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Assemble bowls by layering quinoa as a base, top with roasted butternut squash, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes.
- Optionally drizzle with additional olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve warm and enjoy.
Tips
- Perfectly Fluffy Quinoa: Rinse your quinoa well before cooking to remove any bitterness. This simple step can elevate your dish to a whole new level of flavor!
- Roasting Secrets: For even more depth of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or garlic powder to your butternut squash before roasting. This will enhance the Cajun seasoning and give your dish a smoky undertone.
- Texture Matters: Ensure your butternut squash cubes are cut uniformly to guarantee even cooking. Aim for 1-inch cubes for the best results!
- Fresh Greens: Spinach wilts quickly, so add it to your bowl just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture. You can also substitute with kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
- Garnish for Greatness: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can brighten up the flavors of your bowl. Don’t skip this step if you want a burst of freshness!
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Store each component separately in the fridge and assemble your bowl fresh each day for a nutritious lunch or dinner.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
