Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowl
Highlighted under: Nourishing Inspirations
I absolutely love making this Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowl during the week. It's such a colorful and wholesome dish that is not only visually appealing but packed with flavor. The combination of roasted veggies with hearty quinoa creates a nutritious meal that keeps me energized. I enjoy customizing it with whatever veggies I have on hand, and the fresh herbs bring everything together. It's a perfect option for lunch or dinner when I'm craving something healthy yet satisfying.
When I first tried this Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowl, I was amazed at how delicious simple ingredients can be when roasted. The caramelization of the vegetables enhances their natural sweetness, and when paired with fluffy quinoa, it's simply divine. I find that using a mix of seasonal veggies gives it a wonderful variety of flavors and colors, making it fun to eat.
One key tip I discovered is to let the quinoa cool a bit before tossing it with roasted veggies; it helps keep everything crisp and prevents the bowl from becoming mushy. It’s also great for meal prep, ensuring I always have a hearty and nutritious meal ready to go!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Vibrant and colorful mix of roasted vegetables
- Protein-packed quinoa for a filling meal
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies and herbs
Understanding Quinoa
Quinoa is not only versatile but also serves as a great source of protein, making it a staple in plant-based diets. When preparing quinoa for this dish, it’s crucial to rinse it thoroughly to remove the natural coating called saponin, which can make it taste bitter. This small step enhances the overall flavor profile of the bowl.
Cooking the quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water enriches its flavor, providing a deeper and more complex base for your bowl. Be sure to keep an eye on it while simmering; a little moisture left can add moisture to the final dish, while overcooking can lead to mushiness. I usually remove it from heat as soon as the liquid is fully absorbed, then let it sit covered for a few more minutes to achieve the perfect fluff.
Roasting Tips
Roasting is one of the best ways to enhance the natural sweetness of vegetables, and the high heat helps to achieve a beautiful caramelization on the edges. To ensure even cooking, cut your vegetables into similar sizes; this prevents smaller pieces from burning while larger ones remain raw. I often check them around the 15-minute mark for tenderness and adjust my cooking time accordingly.
If you're looking to add variety, feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower. Each brings its unique flavor and texture to the dish, making every bowl a delightful surprise. Just remember, more fibrous vegetables may require longer roasting times, so adjust your oven timing as necessary.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious bowl:
For the Bowl
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowl:
Cook the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold water and then combine it with vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Prepare the Veggies
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, toss the diced bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli florets with olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Roast the Vegetables
Spread the vegetables evenly on the baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
Assemble the Bowl
In a large bowl, combine the quinoa with the roasted vegetables. Toss gently to mix, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve warm and enjoy your healthy Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowl!
Pro Tips
- For added protein, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken to your bowl. You can also drizzle a light vinaigrette over it for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving and Storing
This Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowl is incredibly versatile. You can serve it warm right after preparation, or it can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. To enjoy leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of extra vegetable broth to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.
For a more exciting meal prep, consider doubling the batch. The quinoa and veggies can be kept separate in airtight containers. This approach ensures that the bowl remains fresh, and you can combine portions as needed throughout the week.
Flavor Enhancements
To elevate the flavors in this bowl, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. It adds a vibrant acidity that brightens the earthy flavors of the roasted vegetables and complements the nuttiness of quinoa. If you're feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of feta cheese or nutritional yeast can also provide a delightful twist.
Fresh herbs play a crucial role in enhancing the dish’s freshness. While parsley is a classic garnish, don’t hesitate to mix in basil, cilantro, or mint, depending on your mood or what you have available. These additions can transform the entire profile of your bowl, introducing new layers of flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasonal or favorite vegetables you have.
→ Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowl is completely vegan!
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish a great option!
Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowl
I absolutely love making this Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowl during the week. It's such a colorful and wholesome dish that is not only visually appealing but packed with flavor. The combination of roasted veggies with hearty quinoa creates a nutritious meal that keeps me energized. I enjoy customizing it with whatever veggies I have on hand, and the fresh herbs bring everything together. It's a perfect option for lunch or dinner when I'm craving something healthy yet satisfying.
Created by: Arabella Scott
Recipe Type: Nourishing Inspirations
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Bowl
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How-To Steps
Rinse the quinoa under cold water and then combine it with vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, toss the diced bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli florets with olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Spread the vegetables evenly on the baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
In a large bowl, combine the quinoa with the roasted vegetables. Toss gently to mix, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips
- For added protein, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken to your bowl. You can also drizzle a light vinaigrette over it for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 330mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 62g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 12g