Savory Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bowl Recipe

Imagine a bowl that smells like a cozy hug, with the nutty aroma of quinoa mingling perfectly with the roasted warmth of broccoli and the creamy richness of cheddar. This Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bowl is not just food; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and warms your heart. Picture this: you take a bite, and it feels like you’re inviting your favorite childhood memories to dinner, all while knowing you’re doing your body some good.

Now, if you’re anything like me, you probably have fond memories of family dinners where flavors clashed in the best possible way. This dish takes me back to those moments, only now I get to enjoy it without the chaos of sibling debates over the last piece of broccoli. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a colorful centerpiece at gatherings, this bowl promises an explosion of flavor that will leave you eagerly going back for seconds.

I vividly remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were so impressed they thought I had secretly hired a chef.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Quinoa: Use tri-color quinoa for added visual appeal and a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• Fresh Broccoli: Select vibrant green florets that are firm and free from yellowing for optimal taste.

• Cheddar Cheese: Aged cheddar works wonders here; its sharpness adds depth to every bite.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile.

• Garlic Powder: This adds an aromatic depth—fresh garlic can be used but remember to adjust quantities!

• Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still delivering rich flavor.

• Soy Sauce: A splash adds umami and balances out the creaminess of cheese beautifully.

• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your personal taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bowl

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later. Chop fresh broccoli into bite-sized pieces and spread them out on the sheet.

Drizzle olive oil over the broccoli and sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper generously. Toss everything together until well-coated—it should look glistening like it’s ready for a runway show.

Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy at the edges. The aroma will draw everyone into the kitchen faster than you can say “superfood.”

While waiting on the broccoli, rinse quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. Combine it in a saucepan with vegetable broth—this adds flavor rather than plain water because who wants boring quinoa?

Bring it to a boil over medium heat then reduce to low and cover. Let simmer for about 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy—just how we like it!

Once both components are ready, mix them together in a large bowl along with shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly combined—the cheese should melt into gooey deliciousness!

Serve immediately while hot! You may want to prepare extra because trust me—this bowl has a way of disappearing fast at gatherings!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, rinse and cook your quinoa according to package instructions. Then, toss the broccoli with olive oil and seasoning before roasting for about 20 minutes until tender and slightly crispy. Combine the cooked quinoa with roasted broccoli, cheese, and any additional ingredients in a bowl for a delightful meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to personalize your Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bowl by adding protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra nutrition. Switch up the cheese; sharp cheddar delivers a robust flavor, while mozzarella offers a milder taste. Add some spices or herbs like garlic powder or fresh dill to enhance the flavor profile further.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help retain moisture during reheating.

Creating this dish reminds me of a dinner party where I served it as a surprise side dish. Everyone was so impressed they asked for seconds—and I secretly hoped they wouldn’t find out how simple it was!

FAQ

What can I substitute for quinoa in this bowl?

You can use brown rice or couscous instead of quinoa if you prefer something different. Both options provide similar textures but will alter the flavor slightly. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, stick with quinoa or rice.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative; just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before roasting to achieve that perfect crispiness.

Is this bowl suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bowl is excellent for meal prep as it holds well in the fridge and tastes great reheated throughout the week.

How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?

To create a vegan version of this recipe, use nutritional yeast instead of cheese or swap it with vegan cheese alternatives that melt well when heated.

Conclusion for Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bowl

In summary, crafting a delicious Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bowl is simple yet rewarding. With tips on customizing flavors and ensuring proper storage, you can elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary without stress. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s bound to impress every time!

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Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bowl

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Roasted Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa Bowl is a delightful blend of nutty quinoa, crisp roasted broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese. This comforting dish not only brings back nostalgic family dinner memories but also offers a healthy and satisfying meal option for busy weeknights or gatherings. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s an Instagram-worthy centerpiece that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup tri-color quinoa
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup aged cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then spread on the baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
4. Rinse quinoa under cold water; combine in a saucepan with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
5. Combine roasted broccoli and cooked quinoa in a bowl; stir in shredded cheddar until melted.
6. Serve immediately while hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: - For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas. - To make it vegan-friendly, replace cheddar with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives. - Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the microwave or stovetop.