Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 onions, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- ¾ cup uncooked quinoa
- 4 cups vegetable broth or stock
- 1 tablespoon tomato puree
- 3 tomatoes - peeled, seeded and chopped
- Italian seasoning to taste
Why This Recipe Is A Favorite
Fresh, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. It combines wholesome quinoa with vibrant Mediterranean ingredients, making it both satisfying and good for you. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a light meal or a healthy side.
Cooking Techniques
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural bitterness.
- Let the quinoa cool completely before mixing with the other ingredients to keep the salad fresh.
- Use extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor and added health benefits.
- Let the quinoa cool completely before mixing with the other ingredients to keep the salad fresh.
- Use extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor and added health benefits.
Directions
Warm the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the onions along with the red, green, and yellow peppers, and cook them for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. Next, add the garlic and let it cook for another couple of minutes until fragrant. Stir in the quinoa, vegetable stock, and tomato puree, then bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender. Finally, mix in the diced tomatoes and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir and cook just until it’s heated through. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Advice
Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a hearty vegetarian main. Add a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Storing This Dish
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together over time, making the salad even tastier the next day. Avoid freezing, as the texture can change.
