Are you ready to elevate your meal game with a burst of vibrant flavors? Discover the delightful world of Middle Eastern cuisine with our "Easy Lemon Zaatar Quinoa" recipe! This quick and nutritious dish combines fluffy quinoa with the aromatic zest of zaatar and the refreshing tang of lemon, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal or a light, satisfying main course. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a dish that not only pleases the palate but also adds a touch of exotic flair to your dining table. Dive into this recipe and unlock the secrets of a healthy yet delicious meal that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons zaatar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water to remove any bitter coating.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is completely absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- Remove the quinoa from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the grains to steam and become tender.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains and release excess steam.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, zaatar, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
- Pour the lemon-zaatar dressing over the warm quinoa and gently fold to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
- Serve warm as a side dish or base for a light meal, garnishing with additional zaatar if desired.
Tips
- Rinse the Quinoa Well: Make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly to eliminate any bitterness from the saponins on its surface. This step is crucial for achieving a pleasant flavor.
- Use a Tight-Fitting Lid: When simmering the quinoa, ensure your saucepan has a tight-fitting lid. This helps trap steam, allowing the quinoa to cook evenly and fluff up perfectly.
- Experiment with Zaatar: Zaatar blends can vary in flavor. Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the amount according to your preference. Some blends may be saltier or more herby than others.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the quinoa before serving. They complement the lemon and zaatar beautifully.
- Serve Warm or Cold: This dish is versatile! Enjoy it warm as a side or let it cool and serve it as a refreshing salad. It’s perfect for meal prep or picnics!
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve your lemon zaatar quinoa alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even as a bed for a hearty salad to create a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
