Looking for a vibrant and nutritious dish that celebrates the flavors of spring? Look no further than our Seasoned Quinoa with Roasted Spring Veggies! This delightful recipe combines fluffy quinoa with tender asparagus and sweet cherry tomatoes, all roasted to perfection. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome addition to your dining table. Whether you're seeking a healthy side or a light main course, this colorful medley will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for roasting vegetables.
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water to remove any bitter coating called saponin.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- While quinoa is cooking, chop asparagus into 1-inch pieces and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Spread asparagus and cherry tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast vegetables in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until asparagus is tender and tomatoes are slightly caramelized.
- Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Gently fold roasted vegetables into the quinoa, ensuring even distribution.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve warm as a nutritious and colorful side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Don’t skip rinsing the quinoa! This step removes the natural saponins that can give it a bitter taste, ensuring a clean and nutty flavor.
- Perfect Roasting: Keep an eye on your vegetables while they roast. You want them to be tender and slightly caramelized for the best flavor. If you like a bit of char, feel free to leave them in for an extra minute or two.
- Customize Your Veggies: While asparagus and cherry tomatoes are fantastic, feel free to mix in other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to suit your taste.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding herbs such as fresh basil or parsley to the quinoa before serving, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy as a quick lunch or dinner!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
