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In today’s fast-paced world, where juggling work, family, and personal commitments can leave little time for preparing nourishing meals, the search for quick yet healthy recipes is more crucial than ever. Enter the Cozy Vegetable and Quinoa Bowl—a perfect solution for busy individuals seeking a nutritious yet satisfying dish that can be whipped up in no time. This vibrant bowl is not only visually appealing but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a delightful feast for the eyes and a powerhouse of nutrition.

Cozy Vegetable and Quinoa Bowl

Discover the warmth of a Cozy Vegetable and Quinoa Bowl, perfect for busy days when you need a healthy meal fast. This colorful dish combines fluffy quinoa with fresh, seasonal veggies, packing in essential nutrients and flavor. It's adaptable, so use whatever you have on hand, and tailored to your taste with herbs and spices. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it's also a powerhouse of nutrition, making it ideal for meal prep or weeknight dinners. Enjoy creating a satisfying bowl full of comfort and health!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth (or water)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium carrot, peeled and diced

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup broccoli florets, bite-sized

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped

1 ripe avocado, sliced (for serving)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Quinoa: In a medium-sized pot, bring the vegetable broth to a rolling boil. Carefully add the rinsed quinoa, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for approximately 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid has been absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Finally, use a fork to fluff the quinoa gently.

    Sauté the Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

      Incorporate Additional Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrot, zucchini, red bell pepper, and broccoli florets into the skillet. Sauté these vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they start to soften but still retain some crunch.

        Season the Mixture: To the vegetables, add the halved cherry tomatoes, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until all vegetables are tender, and the flavors meld beautifully. If you’re using spinach or kale, mix it in last, allowing it to wilt down just a bit.

          Combine Quinoa and Vegetables: Once both the quinoa is cooked and the vegetables are tender, combine them by adding the quinoa to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Gently stir everything together until well combined, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as necessary.

            Serve: To present the dish, generously spoon the cozy vegetable and quinoa mixture into bowls. Top each serving with a few slices of creamy avocado and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Finally, sprinkle with your choice of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor and color.

              Enjoy your warm and nutritious bowl!

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