Quinoa Bowl with Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts
This quinoa bowl with butternut squash and Brussels sprouts is a warm, cozy, and filling vegetarian dinner.
This quinoa bowl with butternut squash and Brussels sprouts is a warm, cozy, and filling vegetarian dinner.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper divided
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeds removed and cut i
- 1 bag of brussels sprouts trimmed and halved, if large
- 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
- 4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries divided
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar divided (see notes)
- Carbohydrate 7.34178500778265 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.09681625 g
- Fiber 0.360662490367889 g
- Protein 0.102115000223928 g
- Saturated Fat 0.009945 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (22g)
- Sodium 3.88325001051092 mg
- Sugar 6.98112251741476 g
- Trans Fat 0.02594375 g
- Calories 31 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the butternut squash by cutting off the ends, peeling the skin, and scooping out the seeds. Cut the squash into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Place the squash on a sheet pan, drizzle with 2 teaspoons of olive oil, and season with half of the salt and pepper.
- Roast the squash at 400°F (200°C) for 35 minutes, stirring once.
- Meanwhile, prepare the Brussels sprouts and place them on a second sheet pan. Season with the remaining 2 teaspoons of olive oil, the remaining salt and pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Roast the Brussels sprouts at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes. (Stir the squash when adding the Brussels sprouts pan to the oven.)
- While the vegetables are roasting, cook the quinoa according to package directions. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the bowls: divide the quinoa, squash, and Brussels sprouts among 4 bowls.
- Top each bowl with 1 1/2 tablespoons of dried cranberries and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or balsamic vinaigrette.
- Enjoy!
A Cozy Vegetarian Dinner: My Quinoa Bowl with Butternut Squash and Brussels Sprouts
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and delicious meals that the whole family will enjoy. This quinoa bowl with butternut squash and Brussels sprouts has become a staple in our weekly dinner rotation. It's packed with flavor, nutrients, and it's surprisingly easy to prepare, even on a hectic weeknight. The combination of sweet butternut squash, slightly bitter Brussels sprouts, and nutty quinoa is simply divine. The balsamic glaze adds a touch of tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the roasted vegetables.
Why this recipe works: First of all, it's incredibly versatile. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, like rosemary or thyme, would elevate the flavors even further. You can also swap out the cranberries for other dried fruits, such as chopped apricots or cherries. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. It's a fantastic way to use up seasonal vegetables, ensuring you always have a healthy and delicious meal on the table.
The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the butternut squash and the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts, creating a delicious balance of flavors. The quinoa provides a hearty base, making this bowl a truly satisfying and filling meal. It's also a great source of protein and fiber, keeping you feeling full and energized throughout the evening.
Beyond the dinner table: This quinoa bowl isn't just for dinner. It's equally delicious as a lunch option, packed in a container for work or school. The flavors actually improve after a few hours in the refrigerator, making it a perfect make-ahead meal prep idea. Just reheat gently before serving. It can also be a satisfying and healthy side dish, especially for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.
Tips for Success: To ensure your butternut squash roasts evenly, try cutting it into similarly sized pieces. Don't overcrowd the sheet pan; leave some space between the vegetables for proper browning. If you find the Brussels sprouts are getting too browned before they are tender, you can always cover the pan loosely with foil for the last few minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions: For an extra protein boost, consider adding some roasted chickpeas, grilled chicken or tofu. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted nuts would also add wonderful texture and flavor. Don't be afraid to experiment and personalize this recipe to suit your taste preferences.
Making it your own: One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. You can easily customize it to your taste and dietary needs. If you're vegan or vegetarian, it's perfect as is. If you're looking for a more substantial meal, add some protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or lentils. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
This quinoa bowl isn't just a meal; it's a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients, transformed into a delicious and nutritious dish. It's a recipe that nourishes both body and soul, a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be amazed by the ease and deliciousness of this simple yet spectacular quinoa bowl.
Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below!
