Skillet Spanish Quinoa
Are you looking for a vibrant, wholesome dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor? Look no further than Skillet Spanish Quinoa! This one-pan meal brings together the hearty goodness of quinoa with the savory notes of classic Spanish ingredients. It’s perfect as a main dish or a side, and it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try!
What Makes This Recipe Special
Skillet Spanish Quinoa is a fantastic fusion of nutrition and flavor. Quinoa, known for its protein-packed goodness, serves as the base for this dish, making it a gluten-free option that’s also rich in fiber. The addition of bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices brings a delightful depth of flavor, while the vibrant colors make it visually appealing. Plus, it all comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick dinner solution, this dish checks all the boxes.
Ingredient Checklist
To create this delicious Skillet Spanish Quinoa, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 (15 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
- 1/2 – 1 tsp hot sauce, to your liking
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Pinch pepper
- 1 Tbsp cilantro, roughly chopped
Tools of the Trade
Before we start cooking, let’s gather the essential tools you will need to make your Skillet Spanish Quinoa:
- Skillet or frying pan: A large skillet is ideal for this recipe to ensure even cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing ingredients seamlessly.
- Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping the vegetables.
Skillet Spanish Quinoa in Steps
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your Skillet Spanish Quinoa.
Step 1: Rinse the Quinoa
To begin, rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. This helps remove any bitter coating, known as saponin, that can affect the flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In your skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they become tender, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Stir in the rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth, petite diced tomatoes (with their juices), hot sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed the liquid and is fluffy.
Step 5: Fluff and Garnish
After cooking, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork, then stir in the chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
Health-Conscious Tweaks
This Skillet Spanish Quinoa is already a healthy choice, but you can make it even more nutritious with these tweaks:
- Swap quinoa for brown rice: If you prefer a different grain, brown rice can work as a substitute, though cooking time may vary.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like corn, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Use low-sodium broth: To keep the sodium levels in check, opt for low-sodium vegetable broth.
- Include protein: Add black beans or chickpeas for an extra protein boost and heartiness.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly. Skipping this step can result in a bitter taste.
- Don’t skip the simmering step. Allowing the quinoa to absorb the broth fully is key to achieving the right texture.
- Adjust the hot sauce to your taste. Start with a small amount and increase as desired to avoid overpowering the dish.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
Preparing meals ahead of time is a great way to save time during busy weeks. Here’s how you can make Skillet Spanish Quinoa in advance:
- Cook and store: Prepare the dish as directed, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat with care: When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth to keep it moist.
- Freeze for later: This dish also freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Popular Questions
Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Absolutely! While quinoa is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with brown rice or even couscous. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as they may differ.
Is this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes! Skillet Spanish Quinoa is entirely plant-based, making it a great option for vegans and vegetarians alike. It’s nutritious and satisfying without any animal products.
How can I spice it up further?
If you’re looking for more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or extra hot sauce. You can also include spices like smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.
What can I serve with Skillet Spanish Quinoa?
This dish is versatile! It pairs wonderfully with avocado slices, a side salad, or even as a filling in burritos or tacos. Enjoy it however you like!
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to whip up your own Skillet Spanish Quinoa. This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to Spain. Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and savor the delightful aromas as your kitchen fills with the scents of garlic, spices, and fresh vegetables.
Whether you’re serving it as a cozy dinner for your family or a vibrant side dish at a gathering, Skillet Spanish Quinoa is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and the satisfaction of a meal made from scratch!
Skillet Spanish Quinoa
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating.
- Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until tender for about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth, petite diced tomatoes (with juices), hot sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until quinoa is fluffy.
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff quinoa with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro.
Notes
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly to avoid bitterness.
- Don’t skip simmering; it’s key for texture.
- Adjust hot sauce to taste for desired spiciness.
