Are you ready to elevate your meal game with a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious? Introducing the Sun Dried Tomato Quinoa, a delightful Italian-inspired recipe that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests! Packed with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, creamy feta, and fresh basil, this wholesome dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing option for any occasion. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a colorful and nutritious meal that serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. Dive into this recipe, and discover how to transform simple ingredients into an unforgettable culinary experience!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for approximately 15-18 minutes until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid and becomes fluffy.
- While the quinoa is cooking, chop the sun-dried tomatoes into small, uniform pieces and finely chop the fresh basil leaves.
- Once quinoa is cooked, remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow it to steam and become extra fluffy.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork, then gently fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh basil.
- Drizzle olive oil over the quinoa mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix to combine all ingredients.
- Serve warm as a side dish or light main course, garnishing with additional fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can give it a bitter taste.
- Use Quality Broth: For the best flavor, opt for a high-quality vegetable broth. Homemade broth can elevate the dish even more!
- Chop Uniformly: When preparing the sun-dried tomatoes and basil, try to chop them into uniform pieces for even distribution and a more appealing presentation.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the quinoa sit covered for 5 minutes. This step helps it steam and fluff up, enhancing its texture.
- Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients! Spinach, olives, or toasted pine nuts can add even more flavor and nutrition to the dish.
- Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm, but it can also be served at room temperature as a refreshing salad option for picnics or potlucks.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the fresh basil! A sprinkle of extra herbs on top not only looks beautiful but also enhances the flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
