In the heart of a bustling farmer’s market, I stumbled upon a vibrant assortment of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices that inspired this delightful quinoa dish. As I watched a little girl giggle while her mother explained the different vegetables, I realized how food could bring joy and connection. This recipe is a celebration of those moments, combining the nutty flavor of quinoa with a medley of roasted veggies and a hint of spice, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small red onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the diced red bell pepper, chopped zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, and diced red onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated.
Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly charred. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be nothing short of intoxicating.
While the veggies are roasting, rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove its natural coating, which can taste bitter. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside.
Once the veggies are done roasting, add them to the cooked quinoa along with the minced garlic and cayenne pepper. Stir gently to combine and let the residual heat from the quinoa and vegetables warm the garlic, allowing its flavor to infuse the dish.
Serve the spiced quinoa medley in bowls, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This dish not only looks beautiful but also delivers a burst of flavors in every bite. Whether as a main course or a side, it’s a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of the season.
Enjoy your culinary creation and remember that every dish tells a story, just like that day at the market.