Quinoa pilaf is a dish of Peruvian origin that has become popular in many parts of the world. It is made with quinoa, a grain that is native to the Andes, and can be served as a side dish or a main course. Quinoa pilaf is usually made with vegetables, meat, or seafood, and often includes spices such as cumin or chili peppers. The dish can be served hot or cold, and is often garnished with fresh herbs or cheese. Quinoa pilaf is a healthy and flavorful option for any meal.
What’s Quinoa pilaf?
Quinoa pilaf is a type of pilaf made with quinoa instead of rice. It is a quick and easy dish to make, and it is very healthy. Quinoa is a grain that is high in protein and fiber, and it is also gluten-free. Pilaf is traditionally made with rice, but it can also be made with other grains, such as quinoa, barley, or millet. Quinoa pilaf is usually made with vegetables, herbs, and spices. It can be served as a side dish or a main course. Quinoa pilaf is a healthy and delicious way to eat quinoa.
Recipe ingredients
Red Quinoa: Red quinoa is a nutrient-rich grain that has a mild, nutty flavor. It is perfect for pilafs because it cooks quickly and has a light, fluffy texture.
White Quinoa: White quinoa is a delicious and healthy alternative to rice or pasta. It has a light, nutty flavor and a fluffy texture. Quinoa is also packed with nutrients, including fiber, protein, and iron.
Grape Tomatoes: grape tomatoes are small and sweet, containing very few seeds. They are also bite-sized.
Spinach: spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients.
White Onions: white onions have a sharp, pungent flavor that is perfect for adding depth to a dish.
Baby Portobello Mushrooms: Baby Portobello Mushrooms add a meaty, umami flavor to this quinoa pilaf.
Zucchini: Zucchini is a summer squash that can be green, yellow or white in color with a mild flavor. It’s high in protein and fiber, and has a nutty flavor.
Red Bell Peppers: Red bell peppers add a sweet, fruity flavor to this healthy quinoa pilaf.
Herbs de Province: Herbs de Province is a flavorful blend of dried herbs that originates from the Provence region of France. It typically includes thyme, rosemary, basil, and oregano. This fragrant mixture is a perfect complement to the nutty flavor of quinoa. In this recipe, the quinoa is cooked in chicken broth, giving it a light and fluffy texture. The Herbs de Province are added in at the end, giving the pilaf a beautiful flavor and aroma.
Salt/Pepper: salt is added to add up and bring flavor.
Blanched Almonds: blanched almonds add a lovely crunch to this quinoa pilaf. They also provide a good source of protein, fiber and healthy fats.
Recipe Ingredient Substitutions
Any color of quinoa works. You can as well as mix several colors.
You might not be liking quinoa, well, try out barley, brown rice or couscous.
Grape tomatoes can be substituted with cherry tomatoes which are relatively larger but with small seeds.
Almonds can be substituted by cashews, Brazil nuts or hazelnuts.
Red bell peppers taste similarly the same as baby bell peppers.
Cooking The Vegetables
Cooking the perfect quinoa pilaf is all about getting the right balance of flavors and textures. First, the quinoa is cooked in a flavorful broth until it is tender but still has a bit of bite. Then, the vegetables are sauteed in olive oil until they are soft and fragrant. Finally, the two are combined and finished with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. The result is a dish that is healthy and satisfying, with each bite bursting with flavor. So whether you’re looking for a Meatless Monday meal or simply want to add more quinoa to your diet, this pilaf is sure to please.
Toasting The Almonds
Toasting the almonds before adding them to the pilaf gives them a deeper flavor that really enhances the dish. Be sure to watch them carefully though, as they can quickly burn. Add the quinoa to a large pan along together with the vegetable broth until it boils. As it is boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked through. To toast the almonds, simply add them to a dry pan over medium heat. Shake the pan occasionally to prevent burning, and remove from the heat once they are golden brown. Add the Toasted almonds and green onions to the quinoa and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with additional green onions if desired. Enjoy!
Nutritional value
Quinoa is a nutritional powerhouse, packing a serious punch of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. But what exactly is quinoa, and how can it be used in a delicious and healthful way? Quinoa is a grain crop that is native to South America, and it has been cultivated for thousands of years. The grain is small and round, and it is usually a pale cream or yellow in color. Quinoa has a slightly nutty flavor and a fluffy, slightly crunchy texture. When cooked, quinoa expands and becomes light and fluffy. Quinoa pilaf is a simple and tasty way to enjoy the grain’s nutritional benefits.