Are you ready to elevate your dinner table with a dish that's as vibrant as it is nutritious? Introducing "Mint Thyme Quinoa with Organic Peas" — a delightful fusion of flavors that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also nourish your body. This quick and easy recipe, ready in just 35 minutes, combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa with the refreshing notes of mint and thyme, making it the perfect side dish or light main course. Whether you're a busy professional or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive in and discover how to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also bursting with color and nutrients!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup organic peas
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water to remove its natural saponin coating, which can taste bitter.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid and developed a fluffy texture.
- While quinoa is cooking, prepare the fresh herbs by finely chopping the mint and thyme leaves, ensuring they are clean and dry.
- During the last 3-4 minutes of quinoa cooking, add the organic peas directly to the pot, allowing them to steam and warm through.
- Once quinoa and peas are cooked, remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and quinoa to fully absorb remaining moisture.
- Gently fluff the quinoa with a fork, then fold in the chopped fresh mint and thyme.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to distribute herbs and seasonings evenly.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm as a nutritious side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water before cooking to remove its natural saponin coating, which can impart a bitter flavor. A fine-mesh strainer works best for this task.
- Broth for Flavor: Using vegetable broth instead of water to cook your quinoa adds an extra layer of flavor, making the dish more savory and satisfying.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: For the best taste, use fresh mint and thyme. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs will provide a vibrant flavor that truly elevates the dish.
- Timing is Key: Add the organic peas during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they retain their bright color and crisp texture. This also helps them warm through without becoming mushy.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the quinoa sit covered for about 5 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and ensures that the quinoa is perfectly fluffy.
- Season to Taste: Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your preference for the best flavor experience.
- Presentation: Serve your quinoa in a beautiful dish and consider garnishing with additional fresh herbs for a pop of color. It makes for an impressive presentation that’s sure to wow your guests!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 8g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
