The ancient grain called quinoa has a history that stretches back 3,000 years to South America, yet still elicits quizzical looks and odd pronunciations (it’s KEEN-wa). This relative of beets and spinach, high in protein and gluten-free, has a nutty, creamy consistency and makes for a great base for slow-roasted vegetables with their own smoky, rich flavors.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 10 (1/2 cup) servings
Recipe Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa, dry
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 3/4 cups water
1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
1/3 cup yellow squash, chopped
1/2 cup plum tomato, chopped
1/3 cup zucchini squash, chopped
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup scallions, cut into ¼ inch bias cut
3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup Italian parsley, chopped
2 cups butternut squash, chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
dash of nutmeg
non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
Follow the prep technique next to each ingredient. Preheat oven to 350˚F. In a medium sauce pan with a lid place water and bring to a boil. Add the quinoa and bring it back to a boil. Cover and lower heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Fluff quinoa and set aside.
Meanwhile season the yellow and zucchini squash with salt and pepper, spray nonstick cooking spray on the vegetables and place on prepared sheet pan. Season the butternut squash with nutmeg and place on prepared sheet pan. Roast vegetables in the oven for approximately 12-15 minutes. The butternut squash may take around 20 – 25 minutes depending on the oven.
In a skillet sauté the red peppers, tomatoes and Scallions in olive oil until fragrant, add lemon juice and paprika. Combine cooked quinoa with all the vegetables, fold in the parsley and serve.
Nutritional Data: calories 98.54, fat 2.47g, sat fat 0.21g, cholesterol 0mg, sodium 145.16mg, carbohydrates 16.94g, fiber 1.90g, sugars 1.70g, protein 3.12g
Created by Chef Edwin Cabrera, Copyright © AdventHealth Press
