When it comes to recipes for dinner healthy, this simple and comforting dish is one of my absolute favorites. It’s not just about feeding the body; it’s about nourishing the soul, which is why I love making this quinoa and mixed vegetable medley. It’s incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something wholesome on the table. I remember my own grandmother whipping up quick meals like this, and they always felt like a warm hug. The colors of the mixed vegetables brighten up the plate, and the flavors come together beautifully with just a dash of garlic. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be reaching for it time and again, knowing you’re treating yourself and your loved ones to something truly good for them.
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need for this wholesome dish:
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables: I love using a colorful combination of carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers, but feel free to swap in whatever veggies you have on hand. Frozen veggies work great too!
- 1 cup of cooked quinoa: This nutty grain is a fantastic source of protein and fiber. You can cook it ahead of time or even use leftovers from a previous meal.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil: This adds a lovely richness and helps to sauté the veggies perfectly. If you prefer, you can use avocado oil or even a little butter.
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder: For that comforting, aromatic flavor. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to use fresh minced garlic instead!
- Salt and pepper: To taste. These simple seasonings really elevate the dish, so don’t skip them!
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional): This is a tasty finishing touch, but if you’re looking for a vegan option, just leave it out or use a dairy-free alternative.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to a delicious and healthy dinner that’s both comforting and satisfying!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. It’s really quite simple, and I promise you’ll appreciate how quickly this meal comes together!
- Heat the olive oil: Start by placing a large pan over medium heat. Add the tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm up for about a minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers a bit.
- Sauté the vegetables: Once the oil is heated, toss in your mixed vegetables. Sauté them for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them tender but still vibrant in color. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen—trust me, it’s heavenly!
- Add the quinoa: Next, stir in your cooked quinoa along with the garlic powder. Mix everything together gently, ensuring the quinoa gets nicely coated with the oil and veggies. Cook this for another 2-3 minutes, letting those delicious flavors meld.
- Season it up: Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. Start with a pinch of each and adjust to your taste. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s hard to take it out!
- Finish it off: If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it on top now, letting it melt slightly into the warm dish. Give everything one last gentle stir, and voila, you’re ready to serve!
And there you have it! A delightful, healthy meal in under 25 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your family will be eager to dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you want a healthy meal without the fuss.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with mixed vegetables and quinoa, it’s a wholesome meal filled with vitamins, fiber, and protein to keep you energized.
- Comforting Flavors: The sautéed veggies and warm quinoa create a delightful harmony, reminding you of home-cooked meals that warm the heart.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs or use up whatever vegetables you have on hand!
- Easy Cleanup: With just one pan, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your delicious creation.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your rotation, bringing happiness and nourishment to your dinner table!
Tips for Success
To really make the most of this recipe, here are some handy tips to keep in mind:
- Pre-cook your quinoa: If you have leftover quinoa from another meal, this is a perfect time to use it! Just heat it up with the vegetables.
- Don’t overcook the veggies: Keep an eye on them while sautéing. You want them tender but still crisp—overcooked veggies can lose their vibrant color and nutrients.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more garlic powder or even some herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.
- Be careful with the heat: If you notice the oil starting to smoke, lower the heat a bit. We want to sauté, not fry!
- Experiment with add-ins: For added protein, toss in some cooked chicken, beans, or even nuts. It’ll make the dish even heartier!
These little tips will help you create a fantastic meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Happy cooking!
Variations
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility! You can easily switch things up to keep it fresh and exciting. Here are some fun ideas to try:
- Vegetable Swap: Don’t have broccoli or bell peppers? No problem! Use zucchini, spinach, or even asparagus. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. They’ll not only enhance the flavor but also make it more filling.
- Spice It Up: If you’re in the mood for something a little more zesty, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil can brighten up the dish. Toss them in at the end for a burst of flavor.
- Different Grains: Experiment with other grains like farro, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Feel free to get creative with these variations! Each change can make the dish feel like a whole new meal, while still keeping it healthy and delightful.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutrition in your meals is important, and this quinoa and mixed vegetable medley is not only delicious but also nourishing! Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
These values are estimates, so keep in mind that they can vary based on the specific ingredients and portions you use. This dish is packed with fiber and protein, making it a wholesome choice for dinner. Plus, it’s low in sugar and sodium, which adds to its health benefits. Enjoy knowing you’re treating your body right!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftovers properly is key to enjoying this delicious dish later! After your meal, let any remaining quinoa and mixed vegetable medley cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have more than you can eat, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag, and it should last for about 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is easy. You can pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to heat evenly. If you prefer, you can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. This will help retain that lovely texture and flavor. Enjoy every last bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables are a fantastic shortcut and work just as well. They’re already prepped and often just need a little extra time in the pan to heat through. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture before adding them to your dish.
What can I substitute for quinoa? If quinoa isn’t your thing or you’re looking for a different grain, brown rice, farro, or even couscous are great alternatives. Each brings its own unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment!
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your vegetable broth (if you choose to use one) is gluten-free. Quinoa itself is a wonderful gluten-free grain, making this meal suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this dish vegan? To make this quinoa and mixed vegetable medley vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also add extra protein with chickpeas or lentils!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can! The quinoa and mixed vegetables can be prepped in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a quick, healthy dinner waiting for you!
Print
Comforting Recipes for Dinner Healthy in 25 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and healthy dinner recipe that is easy to prepare and comforting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers)
- 1 cup of cooked quinoa
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add mixed vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Stir in cooked quinoa and garlic powder.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Notes
- You can use any vegetables you have on hand.
- For a vegan option, skip the cheese.
- Cooked chicken or beans can be added for protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: healthy dinner recipes
