Tantalize your taste buds with our delightful lemon-scented quinoa dish, a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This healthy and vibrant recipe offers a culinary adventure that will transport you to a Mediterranean paradise.
Quinoa, an ancient grain packed with protein and essential nutrients, takes center stage, cooked to perfection and infused with the zesty aroma of lemon. Accompanied by an array of fresh vegetables, including crisp bell peppers, tender zucchini, and sweet carrots, this dish delivers a symphony of colors and flavors.
For a tantalizing twist, juicy cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, while tangy capers add a briny kick. A delightful combination of fresh herbs, including fragrant basil and earthy thyme, elevates the dish with their aromatic essence.
Enhancing the dish further, a zesty lemon vinaigrette dressing drizzles over the quinoa and vegetables, adding a refreshing citrusy touch that brightens the palate. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a main course, a side dish, or even as a filling for wraps and salads.
Our recipe also includes variations for those with dietary restrictions. For a vegan delight, simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Indulge in the goodness of lemon-scented quinoa, a culinary masterpiece that caters to various dietary preferences. Prepare to embark on a flavorful journey with this wholesome and satisfying dish that promises to delight your senses.
LEMON-SCENTED QUINOA
Don't let the much-touted health benefits of this fluffy grain put you off-it also happens to be absolutely delicious. The light, lemony taste of this version makes it a great accompaniment to a whole host of dishes, and it pairs particularly well with the Spicy Calamari with Bacon and Scallions.
Provided by Lillian Chou
Categories Side Vegetarian Quick & Easy Lunch Lemon Quinoa Healthy Gourmet Sugar Conscious Kidney Friendly Vegan Pescatarian Dairy Free Wheat/Gluten-Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free No Sugar Added Kosher
Yield Makes 4 (side dish) servings
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Wash quinoa in 3 changes of cold water in a bowl, draining in a sieve each time.
- Cook quinoa in a medium pot of boiling salted water (1 tablespoon salt for 2 quarts water), uncovered, until almost tender, about 15 minutes. Drain in sieve, then set sieve over same pot above 1 inch of simmering water (water should not touch bottom of sieve). Cover quinoa with a folded kitchen towel, then cover sieve with a lid (don't worry if lid doesn't fit tightly) and steam over simmering water until tender, fluffy, and dry, about 10 minutes. Remove pot from heat and remove lid. Let stand, still covered with towel, 5 minutes.
- Transfer quinoa to a bowl and stir in oil, zest, lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
GARDEN VEGETABLES WITH LEMON-SCENTED QUINOA
This colorful vegetable and grain side dish recipe leads a double life! Serve it as a side to turkey or roast beef, or for a light supper, it can be a meatless main dish.
Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens
Categories Side Dish
Time 30m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Make quinoa as directed on package, using water and salt. Remove from heat; stir in lemon peel and lemon juice. Cover to keep warm.
- Meanwhile, cook garden vegetable medley as directed on bag.
- In 10-inch skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add bell pepper and onion. Cook 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until vegetables are crisp-tender. Stir in cooked garden vegetable medley. Spoon quinoa mixture onto serving platter; top with vegetable mixture.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 280, Carbohydrate 43 g, Cholesterol 15 mg, Fat 1, Fiber 5 g, Protein 8 g, SaturatedFat 4 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 390 mg, Sugar 5 g, TransFat 0 g
LEMON SCENTED QUINOA SALAD
Categories Lemon
Number Of Ingredients 0
Steps:
- Rinse the quinoa in a fine-meshed strainer. In a medium saucepan heat the quinoa and water until boiling. Reduce heat and simmer until water is absorbed and quinoa fluffs up, about 15 minutes. Quinoa is done when you can see the curlique in each grain, and it is tender with a bit of pop to each bite. Drain any extra water and set aside.While the quinoa is cooking make the dressing. Whisk together the garlic, tahini, lemon zest and juice, and olive oil. Add the hot water to thin a bit and then the salt.Toss the cooked quinoa, beans, cilantro, red onion, and half of the dressing. Add more dressing if you like and season with more salt to taste. Serve garnished with a bit of cilantro.
Tips:
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice: This will give the quinoa a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Don't overcook the quinoa: It should be cooked through but still have a slight bite to it.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork before serving: This will help to separate the grains and make them light and fluffy.
- Serve warm or at room temperature: Lemon-scented quinoa can be served as a side dish or as a main course.
- Add your favorite toppings: Some popular options include fresh herbs, nuts, seeds, and cheese.
Conclusion:
Lemon-scented quinoa is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It's a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, and it's also very easy to make. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.
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