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Quinoa is often touted as a superfood, and for good reason. It is gluten-free, making it an excellent grain substitute for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. One of the most remarkable attributes of quinoa is its protein content. Unlike many plant-based foods, quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. This makes it an ideal choice for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based protein into their diet.

Healthy Recipe Ideas

Discover the colorful and nutritious Quinoa & Roasted Vegetable Rainbow Bowl, a delightful meal overflowing with vibrant flavors and health benefits. This recipe combines protein-rich quinoa, a medley of roasted vegetables, and chickpeas for a satisfying dish perfect for lunch or dinner. Easy to prepare, it's ideal for anyone looking to elevate their healthy eating game while enjoying a visually stunning presentation. Explore the health perks, cooking tips, and ingredient choices to make your Rainbow Bowl uniquely yours!

Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups water or vegetable broth

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 zucchini, diced

1 bell pepper (choose either red or yellow), diced

1 cup kale, chopped

1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Juice of 1 lemon

Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or cilantro)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a hot environment for roasting.

    Prepare the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed quinoa and pour in the water (or vegetable broth). Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed. Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool slightly.

      Roast the Vegetables: On a large baking sheet, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced zucchini, diced bell pepper, and rinsed chickpeas. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until evenly coated, then spread the mixture in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and begin to caramelize.

        Sauté the Kale: In a skillet over medium heat, pour in a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped kale and sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the kale is wilted and vibrant. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.

          Assemble the Bowl: In a large serving bowl or individual bowls, start with a base layer of the cooked quinoa. Follow this with the roasted vegetable and chickpea mixture, topping it off with the sautéed kale for a colorful presentation.

            Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze the fresh juice of one lemon evenly over the assembled bowls. For those who enjoy a bit of extra richness, drizzle a little more olive oil on top.

              Serve: Your vibrant and nutritious quinoa & roasted vegetable rainbow bowl is ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it warm or chill it for a refreshing meal.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | Serves 4