Easy One-Pot Quinoa Dinner

February 18, 2013

Over the last few weeks, I’ve been experimenting with a few different one-pot meal ideas. This one is made with protein-rich quinoa and broccoli. It’s quick, delicious and easy to make. It also has a vibrant finish (thanks to some tender baby spinach) that I just love. I can’t get enough of it. Let me know if you feel the same way. – Noelle

One-Pot Quinoa Dinner
Serving Size: 1 (550 calories per serving)

I’ve been making this meal for one, but it doubles and triples beautifully.

Ingredients
1/2 cup quinoa, uncooked

1 cup water

1/2 cup broccoli, finely chopped

2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted

1/4 lemon

2 ounces good Feta cheese

Handful baby spinach, finely chopped
Sea salt, pepper

Better-for-you ingredients

Learn more about the better-for-you ingredients in this recipe:

Quinoa – Quinoa (KEEN-wah) is actually not a grain but a type of seed. It provides a complete protein, making it a popular staple in veggie-focused diets. Quinoa contains ~6 grams of protein per 1/4 cup serving. Health beauties often swap in quinoa for rice in many recipes.

Directions

Bring water to a boil in a covered pot. Add the quinoa, cover, and lower the heat until it is just enough to maintain a simmer. Let simmer for 5-6 minutes. Add the broccoli and re-cover. Turn off the heat and allow to steam for 5 more minutes.

When the quinoa and broccoli are done, fluff, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, sea salt, pepper, and pine nuts. Place into a bowl, fold in a few leaves of tender baby spinach (finely chopped). Top with creamy cubes of Feta cheese. Enjoy immediately!

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