Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients? Say hello to our Mushroom and Herb Quinoa! This vegetarian delight combines the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and fragrant herbs with fluffy quinoa, creating a wholesome meal that will leave your taste buds dancing. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant dish that’s perfect as a side or a light main course. Trust us, once you try this recipe, you’ll be coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable broth until it reaches a gentle simmer.
- Add the rinsed quinoa to the simmering broth, reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and cook for approximately 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- While quinoa is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until mushrooms release their moisture and become tender, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Sprinkle dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper over the mushroom mixture, stirring to combine all flavors.
- Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and gently fold in the mushroom and herb mixture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve hot as a nutritious vegetarian side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa: Don't skip rinsing the quinoa! This step is crucial to removing its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. Use a fine-mesh strainer for best results.
- Simmering Broth: For added flavor, consider using homemade vegetable broth or enhancing store-bought broth with a splash of soy sauce or a dash of lemon juice.
- Sautéing Technique: When sautéing the onions, ensure they are cooked until just golden to enhance their sweetness. This will add a depth of flavor to your dish.
- Mushroom Varieties: Feel free to mix different types of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello, to create a more complex flavor profile.
- Herb Freshness: If you have fresh herbs on hand, such as thyme and parsley, use them instead of dried for a burst of freshness. Just remember to adjust the quantities, as fresh herbs are usually more potent.
- Serving Suggestions: This Mushroom and Herb Quinoa pairs beautifully with a side salad or grilled vegetables. Consider topping it with a sprinkle of feta cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
