Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a vibrant, wholesome dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor? Look no further! Our "Try These Vegan Dinners" recipe features a delightful quinoa medley that will have your taste buds dancing and your body thanking you. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next dinner party. Dive into a world of deliciousness where healthy meets satisfying—your new favorite vegan dinner awaits!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can black beans, rinsed
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. This helps to remove any bitterness from the quinoa.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and has absorbed all the liquid. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the quinoa is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bell pepper and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the pepper is tender.
- Add the rinsed black beans to the skillet with the bell pepper. Stir in 1 teaspoon of cumin and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through.
- Once the quinoa has finished resting, fluff it with a fork and then add it to the skillet with the sautéed bell pepper and black beans. Stir everything together until well combined.
- To serve, divide the quinoa mixture among four plates. Top each serving with sliced avocado for added creaminess and flavor.
- Enjoy your delicious and nutritious vegan dinner!
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Always rinse your quinoa before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can taste bitter. A fine mesh strainer works best for this!
- Perfectly Cooked Quinoa: Keep an eye on the water-to-quinoa ratio; for fluffy quinoa, use 2 cups of vegetable broth for every 1 cup of quinoa and let it simmer without lifting the lid.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out the bell pepper for your favorite veggies! Zucchini, corn, or even spinach can add a unique twist to this dish.
- Spice It Up: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika can give your dish an extra kick.
- Avocado Magic: For the freshest flavor, slice your avocado just before serving. This ensures it stays vibrant and creamy, enhancing the overall dish.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is great for meal prep! Make a larger batch and store it in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week.
- Garnish for Greatness: Consider adding fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice on top for an extra burst of freshness and flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
