Quinoa and Roasted Squash with Peppers Recipe

Edwin Cabrera August 25, 2020

Quinoa and Roasted Squash with Peppers Recipe

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, AdventHealth shared this Latin American-inspired quinoa recipe that is plant-based, cholesterol- and gluten-free, and low in carbs.

The ancient grain called quinoa has a history that stretches back 3,000 years to South America, yet still elicits quizzical looks and odd pronunciations (it’s KEEN-wa). This relative of beets and spinach, high in protein and gluten-free, has a nutty, creamy consistency and makes for a great base for slow-roasted vegetables with their own smoky, rich flavors. This dish works as a fine side dish or as a meat-free main course.

Overview:

Yield: 10 (1/2 cup) servings

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

1 c. quinoa, dry
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1-¾ cups water
½ c. red bell pepper, chopped
1/3 c. yellow squash, chopped
½ c. plum tomato, chopped
1/3 c. zucchini squash, chopped
½ tsp. paprika
½ tsp. kosher salt
½ c. scallions, cut into ¼-inch bias cut
¾ tsp. ground black pepper
¼ c. Italian parsley, chopped
2 c. butternut squash, chopped
2 Tbsp. lemon juice
dash of nutmeg
non-stick cooking spray

Instructions:

Follow the prep technique next to each ingredient. Preheat oven to 350˚F. In a medium sauce pan with a lid, place water and bring to a boil. Add the quinoa and bring it back to a boil. Cover and lower heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes. Fluff quinoa and set aside.

Meanwhile, season the yellow and zucchini squash with salt and pepper, spray nonstick cooking spray on the vegetables and place on prepared sheet pan. Season the butternut squash with nutmeg and place on prepared sheet pan. Roast vegetables in the oven for approximately 12-15 minutes. The butternut squash may take around 20-25 minutes depending on the oven.

In a skillet, sauté the red peppers, tomatoes and scallions in olive oil until fragrant. Add lemon juice and paprika. Combine cooked quinoa with all the vegetables. Fold in the parsley and serve.

Nutritional Data:

calories 98.54; fat 2.47g; sat fat 0.21g; cholesterol 0mg; sodium 145.16mg; carbohydrates 16.94g; fiber 1.90g; sugars 1.70g; protein 3.12g