Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa

Name: Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Recipes

I love experimenting with different grains and veggies, and this Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa has become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of colorful vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a delicious and nutritious dish that I crave often. It's incredibly easy to make and can be enjoyed as a light meal or a side. The versatility of quinoa paired with roasted veggies is not only satisfying but also leaves me feeling energized and full. You'll appreciate how this dish can elevate any dinner table without a lot of fuss.

Created by

Elowen Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:35:39.161Z

When I first created this Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa, I was looking for a healthy yet fulfilling meal that could be prepared in a short time. The aroma of the herbs roasting alongside the colorful vegetables fills my kitchen with a warm, inviting scent that gets everyone excited to eat. I also found that letting the veggies caramelize just a touch adds a wonderful depth of flavor.

Substituting quinoa for rice has become my go-to for added protein and texture. The lightness of quinoa contrasts perfectly with the earthy roasted vegetables, and I often find myself making extra just to enjoy as leftovers the next day. It packs well for lunches and maintains its deliciousness, which is a huge win for me!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors and flavors brighten any plate
Quinoa offers a protein-packed alternative to rice
Simple to prepare, perfect for meal prep or a quick side dish

      

Understanding Quinoa

Quinoa is often praised for its nutritional profile, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a protein-packed meal. In this recipe, the quinoa not only absorbs the rich flavors of the vegetable broth but also provides a hearty texture that holds up well against the tender roasted vegetables. Look for rinsed quinoa to avoid a bitter taste, or simply rinse it yourself before cooking; this step enhances its pleasant, nutty flavor.

Cooking quinoa is straightforward, but timing is crucial for achieving the perfect fluffiness. Gently simmering the quinoa for about 15 minutes allows it to expand fully, resulting in a light and airy texture. During the cooking process, you'll know it's ready when the grains look translucent and the germ separates, forming tiny tails. If you overcook it, you risk a mushy texture, so keep an eye on it!

Roasting Techniques

The roasting of the vegetables is integral to developing their flavors and enhancing their sweetness. By tossing your veggies in olive oil and herbs before roasting, you encourage caramelization, which adds a delicious depth to the dish. Aim for visual cues during roasting; the vegetables should be tender and have golden edges. If you find that the veggies aren’t caramelizing as much as you'd like, consider increasing the oven temperature slightly or giving them an extra few minutes.

For even roasting, spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If you have a mix of sizes like with cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets, cut the larger vegetables into smaller, uniform pieces. This technique guarantees that everything cooks at the same rate, giving you perfectly tender and flavorful results.

Serving and Storage Ideas

This Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for meal prep. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It retains flavor well for up to three months but do note that the texture may soften slightly when reheated. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, ideally adding a splash of water to restore moisture.

For a delightful twist, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or goat cheese atop the warm quinoa and veggies just before serving. You can also customize it by including cooked beans or lentils for added protein or stirring in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a bright finish. These small adjustments can transform this dish into something uniquely your own.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a wholesome dish:

For the Quinoa and Veggies

1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup broccoli florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Cooking Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the vegetables.

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and broth is absorbed.

Roast the Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss the bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli with olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread the veggies on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Combine and Serve

Once the quinoa and roasted vegetables are ready, combine them in a serving bowl. Mix well and drizzle with additional olive oil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Your Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider squeezing fresh lemon juice over the dish right before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a lower-carb option, try substituting cauliflower rice instead of quinoa; just adjust cooking times to avoid mushiness. You can also experiment with vegetables based on seasonal availability—think asparagus in the spring or roasted root vegetables in the winter for a holiday twist.

Herbs play a crucial role in adding aromatic depth to this dish. If you don’t have oregano and thyme, consider using Italian seasoning or even fresh herbs, which can elevate the flavors even more. Just be cautious with fresh herbs, as their flavor is more potent; use about three times the amount of dried herbs you would typically use.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the vegetables in the olive oil and herbs for 30 minutes before roasting. This helps to infuse the flavors more deeply into the veggies. Additional spices like smoked paprika or chili flakes can also add a delightful twist if you prefer a bit of heat. You could mix these into the oil for even dispersion.

If you're looking to enhance the umami notes, try adding a tablespoon of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar to your vegetables before roasting. This addition works wonders, especially with the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and bell pepper, creating a complex flavor that elevates this simple dish into something special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and packed with nutrients.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also reheats well!

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the quinoa and roast the veggies in advance, then combine them right before serving.