Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as colorful as it is nutritious, then you’ve come to the right place! The Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa is a delightful mix of vibrant vegetables and protein-packed quinoa that will brighten up your table. This recipe is a cherished favorite of mine because it brings together fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients in such an easy way. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy yet satisfying or for family gatherings where everyone can customize their own bowls.

The best part? You can whip this up in no time! With its combination of grilled veggies and fluffy quinoa, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and simple: This recipe comes together in just a few steps, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: Everyone can pick their favorite veggies, ensuring that picky eaters are happy too!
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep the quinoa and veggies in advance for an even quicker meal later on.
• Packed with flavor: The combination of grilled vegetables and zesty dressing creates a burst of deliciousness in every bite.
• Healthy choice: Loaded with nutrients, this bowl provides all the good stuff your body craves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa. These fresh veggies combined with the nutty flavor of quinoa create a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

For the Quinoa

• 1 cup uncooked tri-color or white quinoa: Quinoa is a complete protein, providing a hearty and nutritious foundation for our bowl.
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water: Using vegetable broth instead of water infuses the quinoa with subtle savory depth from the very start.
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Essential for bringing out the natural, nutty flavor of the quinoa.

For the Grilled Veggies

• 1 large red bell pepper: Sliced into thick, 1-inch strips to become wonderfully sweet on the grill.
• 1 large yellow bell pepper: Also sliced into 1-inch strips for added sweetness and color.
• 1 medium zucchini: Cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick planks for perfect grilling.
• 1 medium yellow squash: Similarly cut into 1/4-inch planks, offering delicate buttery flavor.
• 1 large red onion: Cut into 1/2-inch thick rings to caramelize beautifully on the grill.
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms: Left whole or halved to add meaty texture and earthy flavor.
• 1 bunch of asparagus: Tough ends snapped off—these cook quickly and get a delicious char.

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Helps prevent sticking while allowing vegetables to caramelize beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Adds tangy sweetness that enhances natural sugars in the veggies.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth to our marinade.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends classic Mediterranean flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds sweet peppery notes.
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: To season our veggies perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough spice!

For the Dressing

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: A rich base for our dressing.
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brightens flavors with its acidic kick!
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey: Balances acidity; use maple syrup for vegan option!
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Adds fresh grassy notes.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify our dressing into creamy goodness.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: For an extra layer of flavor!
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: For seasoning perfection.

Variations

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost!
• Switch up the grains: Try farro or brown rice instead of quinoa if you want something different.
• Mix in proteins: Add chickpeas, black beans, or even grilled chicken for extra heartiness.
• Experiment with spices: Sprinkle some smoked paprika or chili powder over your veggies before grilling for added flair!

How to Make Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

Start by rinsing your quinoa under cold water. This helps remove any bitterness. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa, vegetable broth (or water), and sea salt. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy. Cooking it this way ensures every grain is tender and flavorful!

Step 2: Prepare Your Veggies

While your quinoa cooks, prepare your vegetables by slicing them into appropriate sizes as mentioned above. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, basil, sea salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece gets coated well so they grill evenly!

Step 3: Grill Those Veggies

Preheat your grill (or grill pan) over medium heat. Once hot, add your seasoned vegetables in batches if necessary; don’t overcrowd! Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they have nice char marks and are tender—this adds fantastic flavor!

Step 4: Make Your Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, maple syrup (or honey), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This dressing will tie all those wonderful flavors together!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl

Once everything is cooked—fluff that quinoa with a fork—then layer it into bowls starting with quinoa as your base. Top generously with those beautiful grilled veggies. Drizzle your homemade dressing on top and finish with fresh parsley!

And there you have it—a gorgeous Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa that’s ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa

Creating the perfect grilled veggie bowl is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish.

• Prep Ahead: Marinate the vegetables a few hours in advance or even overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more delicious and aromatic grilling experience.

• Use a Grill Basket: If you’re worried about smaller veggies slipping through the grill grates, use a grill basket. It makes cooking easier and ensures all your delicious veggies get that perfect char.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give each vegetable enough space on the grill for even cooking and caramelization. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of grilling, which means less flavor!

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to mix in other seasonal veggies like eggplant or cherry tomatoes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

• Let it Rest: After grilling, let the veggies rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and enhances the overall flavor.

How to Serve Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa

Presenting your grilled veggie bowl can be just as delightful as preparing it! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at any meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro can add color and freshness that brightens up the bowl.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices not only enhance flavor but also add healthy fats that balance out the dish.
• Toasted nuts or seeds: A handful of toasted sunflower seeds or pine nuts can add a satisfying crunch and extra nutrients.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Roasted Chickpeas: These provide a crunchy contrast and are packed with protein, making them a great addition to your meal.

• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette complements the flavors of the grilled veggies perfectly.

• Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus paired with crispy pita chips offers a delightful dip option that rounds out your meal beautifully.

• Quinoa Tabbouleh: This refreshing salad made with quinoa, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon juice serves as an excellent side that ties back to our main dish while adding vibrant flavors.

Enjoy your Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa! This colorful dish not only nourishes but also inspires creativity in every bite. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover grilled veggies and quinoa in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate them for up to 4 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked quinoa and grilled vegetables.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
• Drizzle with a bit of olive oil or extra dressing for added flavor when serving.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different vegetables in my Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on your preferences or seasonal availability. Just keep the cooking times in mind for each veggie.

How can I make my Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Use maple syrup instead of honey, and enjoy all the fresh flavors without any animal-derived ingredients.

Is quinoa gluten-free?

Yes! Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

What are some good toppings for my Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa?

You can add anything from avocado slices, nuts, seeds, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese (if not avoiding dairy) to give your bowl an extra boost!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re inspired to try this Grilled Veggie Bowl with Quinoa! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re prepping for busy weekdays or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this bowl is sure to delight. Enjoy making it and share your creations—I know you’ll love it!