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Savory Quinoa Pilaf

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A colorful and nutritious side dish made with quinoa and sautéed vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve until water runs clear.
  2. Bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil in a medium pot.
  3. Stir in the quinoa, cover tightly, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  6. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  7. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  8. Add the bell pepper and carrots, cooking for 4–6 minutes until tender-crisp.
  9. If using frozen peas, add them in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
  10. Fluff the rested quinoa with a fork and add it to the skillet with the vegetables.
  11. Sprinkle in cumin and season with salt and pepper.
  12. Stir until everything is evenly mixed and heated through.
  13. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

For a different flavor profile, swap cumin for turmeric or curry powder. Adding a squeeze of lemon or a splash of soy sauce can enhance the dish.