Baked Quinoa and Veggie Medley:
Baked Quinoa and Veggie Medley is a wholesome and flavorful dish that combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with a variety of colorful and nutritious vegetables. This medley is a perfect balance of textures and tastes, with tender quinoa and roasted veggies seasoned to perfection. Whether served as a nourishing main course or a delightful side dish, Baked Quinoa and Veggie Medley is sure to satisfy your taste buds and fuel your body with essential nutrients. In this detailed and SEO-optimized recipe article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making this mouthwatering quinoa medley. Get ready to savor the delightful and nourishing flavors!
Ingredients:
To make Baked Quinoa and Veggie Medley, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 cups chopped mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, broccoli)
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added richness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Quinoa:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the quinoa simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
Wash and chop the mixed vegetables of your choice. Thinly slice the red onion.
3. Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped vegetables and sliced red onion. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and add the minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss the vegetables until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
4. Roast the Vegetables:
Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and lightly browned, stirring once halfway through roasting.
5. Combine Quinoa and Veggies:
In a large baking dish, combine the cooked quinoa with the roasted vegetables. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the quinoa and veggies for added richness.
6. Bake the Quinoa Medley:
Bake the combined quinoa and veggie medley in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the baked quinoa and veggie medley from the oven and garnish it with fresh parsley for added freshness and presentation. Serve the flavorful and wholesome medley as a nourishing main course or a delightful side dish.
FAQs:
1. Can I use different vegetables in the medley?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables of your choice, such as carrots, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus.
2. Is the Parmesan cheese necessary?
The Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a delightful richness to the medley. If you prefer a vegan option, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
While it’s best to enjoy Baked Quinoa and Veggie Medley fresh out of the oven, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion:
Savor the wholesome and flavorful delight of Baked Quinoa and Veggie Medley – a delightful dish that combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with a variety of colorful and nutritious vegetables. This detailed and SEO-optimized recipe has guided you through the process, ensuring a mouthwatering and nourishing quinoa medley to enjoy as a main course or a side dish. Share this delightful and wholesome medley with your family and friends, and savor the nourishing and flavorful experience in every delicious bite. Whether garnished with fresh parsley or served as is, Baked Quinoa and Veggie Medley is sure to satisfy your taste buds and become a favorite dish for all occasions. Embrace the richness and culinary charm of this flavorful medley, and relish the delightful goodness of Baked Quinoa and Veggie Medley!