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Before diving into the preparation of the vibrant veggie quinoa bowl, it’s essential to understand what makes quinoa such a remarkable ingredient. Quinoa is a seed that is often classified as a whole grain due to its numerous health benefits and cooking properties. Unlike many grains, quinoa is gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Vegetable Quinoa Bowl with Lemon Dressing

Discover the vibrant veggie quinoa bowl, a perfect dish that showcases the beauty of plant-based eating. This colorful meal features protein-packed quinoa topped with a medley of fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, all drizzled with a zesty lemon dressing. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for any meal!

Ingredients
  

For the Quinoa Bowl:

1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly

2 cups water or vegetable broth

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup bell peppers, diced (any mix of colors for a vibrant look)

1 cup cooked chickpeas (canned, drained, or freshly boiled)

1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 avocado, sliced (optional, for garnish)

For the Lemon Dressing:

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and your choice of water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the liquid has been fully absorbed. After cooking, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool down.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooling, wash and chop all your vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell peppers, cooked chickpeas, chopped baby spinach, chopped red onion, and parsley. Toss gently to mix.

      Make the Lemon Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste, and continue whisking until the dressing is well emulsified.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the quinoa has cooled to room temperature, add it to the bowl filled with the mixed vegetables. Pour the lemon dressing evenly over everything and use a gentle tossing motion to ensure all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

          Serve: Carefully divide the vibrant quinoa mixture among individual serving plates or bowls. If desired, elegantly top each serving with slices of avocado for added creaminess. Enjoy your fresh and colorful veggie quinoa bowl!

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | Serves 4