Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This Quinoa and Bell Peppers recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, vibrant colors, and is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. This recipe delivers a healthy and satisfying meal, perfect for those seeking delicious and easy recipes. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cooking the Quinoa
Begin by cooking the quinoa according to package directions. Generally, this involves combining the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth in a saucepan, bringing to a boil, then reducing heat and simmering for about 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork before setting aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
While the quinoa cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped bell peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combining and Serving
Once the quinoa is cooked and the vegetables are sautéed, gently combine them in the skillet. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Serve the Quinoa and Bell Peppers warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. This healthy meal is perfect as a quick dinner idea or a light lunch.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Rinse your quinoa: Rinsing the quinoa before cooking helps remove saponins, which can give it a bitter taste.
- Don't overcook the vegetables: You want the bell peppers to be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it entirely.
- Add protein: To make this a more complete meal, add cooked chicken, black beans, or chickpeas.
Variations:
- Add different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms.
- Change the spices: Try different spice combinations, such as chili powder, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 8-10g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Quinoa and Bell Peppers recipe is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a healthy and delicious homemade meal. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!