Description
A delicious and healthy Cajun quinoa pilaf packed with protein and fiber, perfect as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium carrot, shredded or chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup cooked black beans or chickpeas
- Squeeze of lemon or lime juice
- Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, peppers, celery, and carrot; cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir in rinsed quinoa and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, reduce to low heat, cover and cook for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, garnish with parsley or citrus juice, and serve hot.
Notes
To avoid bitterness, rinse quinoa thoroughly. Adjust spices for personal taste. This dish is versatile; feel free to add more vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun