What To Know
- In this blog post, we present you with an easy-to-follow urban plates quinoa recipe that allows you to recreate this culinary delight in the comfort of your own kitchen.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth or water.
- Serve the quinoa bowl immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Urban Plates, a popular California-based restaurant chain, is renowned for its fresh, healthy, and flavorful dishes. One of their signature offerings is the quinoa recipe, a delightful blend of fluffy quinoa, roasted vegetables, and tangy dressing. In this blog post, we present you with an easy-to-follow urban plates quinoa recipe that allows you to recreate this culinary delight in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
- In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth or water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
2. Roast the Vegetables
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss the bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
4. Assemble the Quinoa Bowl
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, cilantro, and parsley.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese, if desired.
Variations
- Add protein: Grill or roast chicken, tofu, or salmon to add protein to the bowl.
- Change the vegetables: Substitute the bell peppers and zucchini with other vegetables of your choice, such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Add spices: Enhance the flavor with spices like cumin, coriander, or paprika.
- Make it a grain bowl: Add other grains like brown rice, barley, or farro to create a more hearty bowl.
Tips
- For a fluffier quinoa, rinse it thoroughly before cooking.
- To prevent the vegetables from sticking to the baking sheet, toss them with a little olive oil before roasting.
- Adjust the dressing to your taste by adding more lemon juice or honey for acidity or sweetness.
- Serve the quinoa bowl immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Benefits of Urban Plates Quinoa Recipe
- High in fiber: Quinoa is a good source of fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Rich in protein: Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids.
- Low in calories: Quinoa is a low-calorie grain that is perfect for a healthy meal.
- Versatile: The urban plates quinoa recipe can be customized to your liking, making it a versatile dish.
Final Thoughts: A Culinary Adventure in Your Own Kitchen
With its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, the urban plates quinoa recipe is a culinary delight that showcases the essence of California cuisine. By recreating this dish at home, you can embark on a gastronomic adventure without leaving the comfort of your kitchen. Experiment with different variations and enjoy the satisfaction of preparing a restaurant-quality meal that nourishes your body and soul.
Information You Need to Know
Q: What is the best way to cook quinoa?
A: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking and use a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to liquid. Cook over low heat until all the liquid has been absorbed.
Q: Can I use other vegetables in the recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute the bell peppers and zucchini with other vegetables of your choice, such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
Q: How can I make the dressing more flavorful?
A: Add spices like cumin, coriander, or paprika to the dressing for a more flavorful kick. You can also adjust the lemon juice or honey to your taste.
