Photo courtesy of Minimalist Baker
At this time of year, when friends and relatives travel around the country to see one another, we like to have an arsenal of go-to recipes at the ready – ones that are delicious, nutritious and ready to serve to company at a moment’s notice. These 30-minute quinoa recipes will let you delight and satisfy your guests, and also allow you to spend maximum quality time with them.
Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad, Chelsea’s Messy Apron
This subtly sweet and seasonal salad is packed with tasty and colorful ingredients like cubed sweet potato, pomegranate seeds, clementines and apples. Quinoa and feta cheese make it hearty enough to enjoy as a main course, and the accompanying lemon-honey vinaigrette is delicious.
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Quinoa, Pinch of Yum
Looking for something a bit more decadent? This recipe has the buttery flavor of scampi, and the ancient grain nutrition of quinoa. Since shrimp cooks in only a few minutes, it’s a good protein to prepare for an impromptu dinner party. Serve this with a side salad (which you can throw together while the quinoa is cooking) and you’ve got a complete meal.
Quinoa Taco Casserole, Somewhat Simple
Who doesn’t love a tasty, nutritious casserole that comes together in only 30 minutes? This one has hearty black beans, fresh cilantro and green onions, tomato and avocado, melted cheese and salsa for spice – and with so many colorful ingredients, it’s just as pretty as it is delicious.
Vegetarian Quinoa Chili with Kale and Red Beans, Some the Wiser
Another dish that’s just as appealing to the eye as it is to the stomach, this vibrant chili is mainly made up of ingredients you probably already have on hand – like kidney beans, tomato sauce, dried spices and quinoa. Add some corn and kale, and you have yourself a wonderful vegetarian entrée perfect for a cold winter’s day.
30-Minute Coconut Curry, Minimalist Baker (pictured)
The name says it all: This colorful, Indian-inspired curry full of fresh vegetables and warming spices comes together in only 30 minutes – which is more time than you need to make the accompanying coconut quinoa. As written, the recipe serves four – but it can be easily doubled (or tripled) to accommodate for the size of your hungry party.
Quinoa Salad with Pineapple Mojito Chicken, Food Faith Fitness
With so many components to it, it’s hard to believe that this dish can be made in just 30 minutes – but it’s true, as long as you marinate the chicken beforehand (for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.) The result is a perfectly seasoned meal full of tropical flavors (pineapple, coconut, macadamia nuts, avocado) that will have you and your loved ones feeling like they are on vacation.
For even more delicious gluten-free recipes, be sure to visit us over at AncientHarvest.com. While there, you may also want to download our free Modern Meal Cookbook. It features nutritious, adaptable recipes that are sure to please everyone at the dinner table during the holidays and beyond.
