If you're looking for a dish that perfectly balances comfort and sophistication, look no further than this Quinoa Pilaf with Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese! This delightful recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Imagine the sweet, earthy notes of roasted butternut squash mingling with the rich creaminess of goat cheese, all nestled within fluffy quinoa. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a nutritious meal, this dish is sure to impress. Ready to elevate your culinary game? Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your kitchen the star of the evening!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Peel and dice the butternut squash into small, even cubes for even cooking. Slice the onion thinly and crumble the goat cheese. Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitterness.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water (or vegetable broth for added flavor). Add a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork before serving.
- While the quinoa is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes, or until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.
- Once the onions are caramelized, add the diced butternut squash to the skillet. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and lightly browned. If necessary, add a splash of water to help steam the squash and prevent sticking.
- When the butternut squash is tender, combine the cooked quinoa with the sautéed onions and squash in the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the crumbled goat cheese, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm pilaf.
- Serve the quinoa pilaf warm, garnished with additional thyme or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Enjoy your delicious Quinoa Pilaf with Butternut Squash, Caramelized Onion, and Goat Cheese!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can peel and dice the butternut squash and slice the onion a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
- Rinse the Quinoa: Don’t skip rinsing the quinoa! This step removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water before cooking.
- Use Broth for Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider cooking the quinoa in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. It enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Caramelization is Key: Be patient while caramelizing the onions. Cooking them slowly over medium heat allows their natural sugars to develop, resulting in a rich, sweet flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Add Texture: For a bit of crunch, consider tossing in some toasted nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or pumpkin seeds, just before serving. They add a delightful contrast to the creamy goat cheese.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or additional thyme can brighten the dish and add a pop of color. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can elevate the flavors even more.
- Serve Warm: This pilaf is best enjoyed warm, so serve it immediately after mixing in the goat cheese for that creamy, melty goodness.With these tips in mind, you’re all set to create a stunning and delicious Quinoa Pilaf that will wow your family and friends!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
