Imagine a meal that's not just delicious, but also packed with nutrition, ready in just 35 minutes, and bursting with vibrant Asian-inspired flavors. These Warm Asian Quinoa Power Bowls are your ticket to a quick, wholesome dinner that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you. Perfect for busy professionals, health-conscious foodies, and anyone looking to elevate their weeknight cooking game, this recipe is about to become your new go-to meal that proves healthy eating can be incredibly exciting and satisfying.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- While quinoa cooks, prepare vegetables. Chop broccoli into small florets, slice bell peppers into thin strips, and shred carrots using a grater or food processor.
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and bell peppers, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they're crisp-tender but still vibrant in color.
- Add shredded carrots to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour soy sauce over the quinoa and mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Gently fold the sautéed vegetables into the quinoa, mixing until well combined.
- Divide the quinoa mixture evenly among four serving bowls.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over each bowl as a garnish for added texture and flavor.
- Serve immediately while warm, enjoying the nutritious and flavorful Asian-inspired power bowl.
Tips
- Always rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural saponin coating, which can taste bitter.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for deeper flavor infusion into the quinoa.
- Keep your vegetables crisp-tender by avoiding overcooking - they should maintain their vibrant colors and slight crunch.
- For extra protein, consider adding tofu, edamame, or grilled chicken to the bowl.
- Customize your bowl with additional garnishes like sliced green onions, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
- If you prefer meal prep, this recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for lunch planning.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
