Nutrition Counseling, Coaching & Education
June 16, 2020
Looking for a light and healthy dinner that’s chock full of protein, healthy carbs, vitamins and minerals? Look no further than one of my favorites – a quinoa and veggie bowl!
While not technically a grain, quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) is prepared and eaten like a grain and boasts loads of healthy benefits. High in protein and gluten-free, it is one of the few plant foods that contains sufficient amounts of all nine essential amino acids. It is also a great source of fiber, magnesium, B vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E and other antioxidants. Best of all, it cooks easily on the stovetop in just 15 minutes!
Start with a base of quinoa in your bowl and then add any of your favorite roasted veggies. On hot summer nights, there’s no need to fire up the oven – just throw some veggies on the grill to cook. Or, if you prefer, cook them on a baking sheet in the oven at 400 degrees. Get creative and add lots of colors to boost your nutrient intake. I like butternut squash, beets, Brussles sprouts, cauliflower, green beans, asparagus – anything you can think of! Once the veggies are roasted, simply pile them on top of the quinoa, add a scoop of goat cheese or crumbled feta for an extra kick of flavor and protein.
This is one of those meals that everyone in the family can make their own. My kids even like adding fruit to the top of their quinoa. Have fun experimenting with different flavors and make sure to make enough because this makes for great leftovers for lunch the next day!
Enjoy!