Grilled Vegetable Quinoa Bowl: A Nutritious Flavor Explosion

Recipe: Grilled Vegetable Quinoa Bowl

Ingredients:

For the bowl:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 zucchini, sliced lengthwise
• 1 red bell pepper, quartered
• 1 yellow squash, sliced lengthwise
• 1 red onion, cut into thick rounds
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds

For the dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the quinoa:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water (or broth).
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until water is absorbed.
   • Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare the vegetables:
   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
   • Brush the zucchini, bell pepper, yellow squash, and red onion with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
   • Grill the vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
   • Grill the cherry tomatoes in a grill basket or on skewers for about 2 minutes, until slightly blistered.
3. Make the dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the bowls:
   • Divide the cooked quinoa between bowls.
   • Top with the grilled vegetables.
   • Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and pumpkin seeds.
   • Drizzle with the prepared dressing.
5. Serve and enjoy your Grilled Vegetable Quinoa Bowl!

Tips:

• For added protein, top with grilled chicken, tofu, or a fried egg.
• You can customize this bowl with any seasonal vegetables you prefer.
• This recipe is great for meal prep – simply store the components separately and assemble when ready to eat.
• For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

This Grilled Vegetable Quinoa Bowl is a perfect balance of flavors and nutrients. The smoky grilled vegetables pair beautifully with the nutty quinoa, while the tangy dressing adds a bright note to the dish. Packed with fiber, protein, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, this bowl is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It's an ideal meal for those looking to incorporate more plant-based options into their diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.