Welcome to the delightful world of Mediterranean flavors with this Quinoa Skillet recipe! It's a vibrant, one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, offering a healthy yet satisfying option that's packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Quinoa serves as the hearty base of this dish, providing a protein-rich and gluten-free option that absorbs all the delicious flavors. Vegetable broth adds depth and richness to the quinoa as it cooks. Olive oil is the classic Mediterranean fat that enhances the flavor and helps sauté the vegetables.
Onion and garlic are essential for building a savory base, while sun-dried tomatoes and kalamata olives contribute a tangy, umami punch. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness and color. Feta cheese provides a creamy, salty finish, and dried oregano ties everything together with its earthy aroma. Finally, a touch of salt and pepper seasons the dish to perfection, while fresh basil offers a fragrant garnish.
Start by rinsing your quinoa under cold water. This simple step helps remove its natural coating, which can sometimes taste bitter. Next, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, throw in the chopped onion and sauté for about five minutes until it turns translucent. This is where the foundation of flavor begins.
Add in the minced garlic and let it cook for just about a minute. You'll know it's ready when the aroma fills your kitchen. Now, stir in the quinoa and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. You'll know it's done when the quinoa is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
It's time to add some color and flavor with the sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and oregano. Stir these ingredients in and let them cook for another five minutes so everything heats through nicely. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the feta cheese. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. Finally, sprinkle some fresh basil on top before serving for that extra touch of freshness.
This Mediterranean Quinoa Skillet pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. Serve it with a chilled glass of white wine for a complete Mediterranean dining experience. If you're hosting, consider adding a platter of mixed olives and hummus for guests to nibble on.
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