Vegan Dinner in Under 30 Minutes
Whip up a delicious vegan dinner in under 30 minutes with this quick and easy quinoa skillet recipe. Packed with protein rich ingredients and vibrant vegetables, this dish is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a nutritious meal that the whole family will love.
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Why You’ll Love This Vegan Dinner in Under 30 Minutes
This quinoa skillet is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a meal that is quick, healthy, and full of taste. The combination of quinoa, black beans, and fresh vegetables creates a wonderful balance of nutrients. Plus, it is gluten-free and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences.
How to Make Quinoa Skillet Vegan Denner
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil and add the quinoa. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the quinoa is done, fluff it with a fork and mix it into the skillet with the vegetable mixture.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
How to Serve Quinoa Skillet
This quinoa skillet can be served hot right out of the pan. For a more complete meal, you can serve it with avocado slices or over a bed of fresh greens. This versatile dish can also be enjoyed as a standalone entrée or as a hearty side dish.
How to Store Quinoa Skillet Vegan Dinner
To store leftovers, allow the quinoa skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Quinoa Skillet Perfect
- Rinse Quinoa Thoroughly: Rinsing quinoa helps remove its natural coating, known as saponin, which can give it a bitter taste. Always rinse your quinoa before cooking for the best flavor.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to vary the spices to match your personal taste. Adding more chili powder can increase the heat, or you can include smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Add Your Favorite Veggies: This vegan dinner recipe is very flexible. Use any vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, spinach, or tomatoes, to make it even more nutritious.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your dish an extra kick.
- Cheesy Flavor: Stir in nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Herbal Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh taste.
Pro Tips for Success This Vegan dinner
- Keep an eye on your cooking time; overcooking can make quinoa mushy.
- Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting to cook, so everything flows smoothly.
- Adjust the amount of vegetable broth depending on your desired consistency more liquid for a saucier dish, less for a thicker texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa with other grains like brown rice or couscous. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different grains require different amounts of water and cooking durations.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! The quinoa skillet can be made ahead of time and stored for several days. It’s perfect for lunches or quick dinners during busy weekdays.
Can I make it oil-free?
Yes, you can omit the oil from the recipe entirely. The natural moisture from the vegetables will create enough steam to cook the dish perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This vegan dinner in under 30 minutes is a quick, healthy, and delicious option for any night of the week. With its ease of preparation and a host of customizable options, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this vibrant and satisfying meal without the hassle, and embrace the benefits of a plant-based diet!
Quinoa Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa Rinse thoroughly before cooking
- 2 cups vegetable broth Adjust amount for desired consistency
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn Fresh or frozen
- 1 cup diced bell peppers Any color of bell pepper works
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
- In a pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil and add the quinoa. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy.
Cooking
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the quinoa is done, fluff it with a fork and mix it into the skillet with the vegetable mixture.
Serving
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
