A vibrant and healthy dish brings together the nutty flavors of quinoa with fresh Mediterranean ingredients for a light, satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or a nutritious side, it’s bursting with color and wholesome goodness.
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time25 min
Total Time45 min
Difficulty
Medium
Tips From The Kitchen
Rinse quinoa well before cooking to remove any bitterness.
Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor.
Let the quinoa cool completely before tossing with other ingredients to keep the salad fresh.
Ingredients
0/9
What Makes This Recipe Unique
Full of vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for any meal. The combination of fresh vegetables and quinoa provides a great balance of protein and fiber.
Directions
Lightly heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the onions and all three peppers—red, green, and yellow—and cook them, stirring often, for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another couple of minutes until fragrant. Next, stir in the quinoa, vegetable stock, and tomato puree. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Once the quinoa is cooked, mix in the diced tomatoes and sprinkle in some Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir and cook just until everything is heated through. Then it’s ready to serve!
278
people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
Perfect Side Pairings
Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. You can also enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a side dish alongside Mediterranean dips like hummus or tzatziki.
Food Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the salad fresh, add any dressing just before serving. If the quinoa absorbs too much liquid, fluff it with a fork before eating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use water instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, water can be used, but vegetable broth adds more flavor to the dish.
How do I know when the quinoa is fully cooked?
The quinoa is done when it’s tender and has absorbed all the liquid, usually after about 20 minutes of simmering.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated before serving.
What can I substitute for tomato puree?
You can use tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes as a substitute.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, all ingredients are plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Can I use different types of quinoa?
Yes, white, red, or tri-color quinoa will work, but cooking times may vary slightly.
How spicy is this dish?
The recipe isn’t spicy, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you want some heat.
Should I peel and seed the tomatoes?
Peeling and seeding the tomatoes helps improve texture, but you can leave them on if preferred.
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