Looking for a wholesome meal that packs a flavor punch? Garlic Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowls are your answer! This dish is not only healthy but also easy to make. I’ll guide you through using fresh veggies, herbs, and quinoa, creating a vibrant bowl that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Trust me, this delightful meal will become a favorite in your kitchen! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Quinoa and Broth
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth or water
Quinoa is a great base for this dish. It is high in protein and fiber. Rinsing it removes any bitter taste. Using vegetable broth adds flavor. You can use water, but broth makes it richer.
Vegetables
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup broccoli florets
These veggies bring color and crunch. Zucchini is soft and mild. Bell peppers add sweetness. Cherry tomatoes burst with juice. Broccoli gives a nice bite. Mixing them creates a tasty medley.
Seasoning and Garnishes
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
– ½ lemon, juiced
This mix of herbs and spices is key. Olive oil helps the veggies roast well. Garlic adds a strong flavor. Oregano and basil bring warmth. Salt and pepper enhance everything. Garnishing with parsley and lemon adds freshness and brightness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Quinoa
Start by rinsing one cup of quinoa under cold water. This step removes any bitter taste. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed quinoa with two cups of vegetable broth or water. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat. Once it boils, turn the heat down low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. The quinoa will absorb the liquid and become fluffy. After 15 minutes, remove the pot from heat but keep it covered for five more minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork before serving.
Roasting the Vegetables
While the quinoa cooks, it’s time to roast the veggies. First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, add one medium diced zucchini, one diced bell pepper, one cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and one cup of broccoli florets.
In a small bowl, mix three tablespoons of olive oil, four minced garlic cloves, one teaspoon of dried oregano, and one teaspoon of dried basil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Pour this oil mixture over the vegetables. Toss everything well to ensure even coating.
Spread the seasoned vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir the veggies halfway through for even cooking. They should turn tender and golden brown.
Assembling the Bowls
Once the quinoa and vegetables are ready, it’s time to assemble your bowls. Start with a generous scoop of quinoa in each bowl. Top it with the roasted veggies. For added flavor, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top. Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your Garlic Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowls!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for Perfect Quinoa
To make quinoa fluffy, rinse it well before cooking. This removes the bitter coating called saponin. Use a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to liquid. For one cup of quinoa, use two cups of vegetable broth or water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Let it rest for five minutes after cooking. Fluff it gently with a fork to keep it light.
Roasting Vegetables: Best Practices
Roasting veggies brings out their natural sweetness. Cut them into even pieces for uniform cooking. I like to use zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli. Toss them in olive oil and seasonings to coat well. Spread them out on a baking sheet. This helps them roast evenly. Roast at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure they caramelize nicely.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Garlic Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowls in bright bowls for a fun look. Top the quinoa with roasted veggies and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and flavor. For extra creaminess, try adding feta cheese or avocado slices. Enjoy your meal warm for the best taste!
Variations
Alternative Vegetables
You can swap the veggies for your favorites. Try using carrots, sweet potatoes, or asparagus. These vegetables add their own unique flavors. If you like a bit of crunch, add some snap peas or cauliflower. You can mix and match based on what you have at home. The key is to use fresh, colorful veggies to keep it fun.
Grain Substitutions
Quinoa is great, but other grains work too. You can use brown rice, farro, or even bulgur. Each grain has a different taste and texture. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor, while farro gives a chewy bite. You can also try couscous for a softer option. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the grain you choose.
Vegan or Protein Additions
This bowl is versatile! To make it vegan, skip cheese and add more veggies. For protein, consider chickpeas, black beans, or lentils. Grilled chicken or shrimp also works if you eat meat. You can top it with nuts or seeds for an extra crunch. Each addition makes the meal more filling and satisfying.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
Store your Garlic Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowls in the fridge. Use an airtight container for best results. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Before eating, check for any signs of spoilage.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Let the bowls cool completely first. Then, divide them into single servings. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your quinoa bowls, use the microwave or the oven. For the microwave, place in a bowl with a splash of water. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Put the bowls on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes. Enjoy your meal just like when it was fresh!
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can use brown rice. It will change the texture and taste. Brown rice takes longer to cook, about 40-45 minutes. Adjust the liquid to 2.5 cups for brown rice. Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking.
How do I store Garlic Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowls?
To store the bowls, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They can stay in the fridge for up to four days. You can also separate the quinoa and veggies if you prefer.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this recipe?
You can serve a simple green salad. A light soup pairs well, like tomato or vegetable. You might also enjoy crusty bread for dipping. For a heartier option, try grilled chicken or tofu.
This blog post covers how to make delicious Garlic Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowls. We started with the right ingredients, including quinoa, fresh veggies, and tasty seasonings. Next, I shared clear steps for preparing the quinoa and roasting the vegetables. I also provided tips for the best flavor and texture, as well as fun variations. Finally, we discussed how to store leftovers and answered common questions. Enjoy making this dish and experiment! It’s a simple way to create a healthy meal.
