Looking for a wholesome, all-in-one meal? This One-Pot Quinoa Vegetable Medley is just what you need. Packed with nutritious vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, this dish is both filling and refreshing. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal.
This easy recipe combines vibrant, fresh vegetables with fluffy quinoa, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is designed to be simple yet satisfying.
It’s not just about convenience – the taste is a delightful blend of savory and slightly nutty flavors from the quinoa, paired with the sweetness of bell peppers and the earthiness of spinach. Every bite is a celebration of wholesome goodness!
Vibrant and Wholesome Dish
This One-Pot Quinoa Vegetable Medley brings together a delightful mix of flavors and textures, showcasing the beauty of colorful vegetables alongside fluffy quinoa.
The combination of diced bell peppers, carrots, and fresh spinach not only adds a visual appeal, but also packs a nutritional punch, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals.
By cooking everything in one pot, the dish retains the essence of all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld harmoniously, resulting in a comforting meal that is both filling and refreshing.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing this dish is straightforward and requires minimal kitchen tools, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even leisurely weekends.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots, which creates a fragrant base.
Once these aromatics are tender, the rinsed quinoa and diced bell peppers join the mix, followed by vegetable broth to bring everything together into one delicious pot of goodness.
Cooking to Perfection
Allow the mixture to boil before reducing the heat to simmer.
Cover the pot and let it cook until the quinoa absorbs the liquid, which typically takes around 15 minutes.
The final touch includes folding in the chopped spinach, allowing it to wilt just before serving, adding a burst of color and a boost of nutrition.
Flavorful Seasoning
Seasoning plays a vital role in enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Adding salt, pepper, and a hint of cumin elevates the quinoa and veggies, bringing out their natural flavors.
For those who enjoy a fresh finish, a sprinkle of chopped parsley adds not only color but also a subtle earthy note.
Serving Suggestions
This quinoa medley can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite protein for a more filling meal.
Serving it in a rustic bowl adds to the charm, making it a visually appealing centerpiece for any table.
Consider accompanying it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a balanced meal that satisfies.
Nutritional Benefits
Quinoa is a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making this dish a healthy option.
With only 220 calories per serving, it offers a guilt-free indulgence that nourishes without overwhelming.
The inclusion of various vegetables ensures a wide spectrum of vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Delicious and Nutritious One-Pot Quinoa Dish
This One-Pot Quinoa Vegetable Medley is a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring fluffy quinoa cooked with a medley of colorful vegetables. It’s a healthy option that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and it leaves you feeling satisfied without being heavy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the Quinoa and Broth: Stir in the rinsed quinoa, diced bell pepper, cumin, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed the liquid and is fluffy.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 38g