Garlic Lemon Quinoa with Roasted Vegetables

This garlic lemon quinoa with roasted vegetables is an easy, flavorful, and nutrient-dense plant-based meal perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or a hearty side dish. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, fiber-filled roasted vegetables, and a bright, zesty dressing, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy healthy, plant-based eating with minimal effort.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

• 2 cups vegetable broth or water

• 1 zucchini, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

• 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a pot, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and set aside.

3. While the quinoa cooks, place the zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper, and toss to coat evenly.

4. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, lemon juice, fresh parsley, and pine nuts (if using). Toss well to mix flavors.

6. Serve warm or cold and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280

• Protein: 9g

• Carbs: 38g

• Fat: 11g

Cost Per Serving: $2.00

Things You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Quick & easy – Ready in under 40 minutes with minimal hands-on cooking.

• Nutrient-dense – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from fresh ingredients.

• Perfect for meal prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

• Customizable – Swap in different vegetables based on what’s in season.

Expert Tips for Best Results

• Rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness.

• Roast the veggies until slightly browned for extra flavor.

• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth.

Why This Recipe Works

• Quinoa is a complete protein, making this meal filling and balanced.

• The garlic lemon dressing enhances the freshness of the ingredients.

• Roasting vegetables brings out natural sweetness and flavor.

Flavor Variations

• Mediterranean Style: Add chopped kalamata olives and crumbled vegan feta.

• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce.

• Mexican-Inspired: Stir in black beans, avocado, and lime juice.

Highlight Ingredients

• Quinoa – A high-protein, fiber-rich plant-based staple.

• Zucchini & Bell Peppers – Naturally sweet and full of vitamins.

• Garlic & Lemon – Bold, bright flavors that bring everything together.

Substitutions

• No quinoa? Use brown rice, farro, or couscous instead.

• Soy-free? This recipe is naturally soy-free!

• Nut-free? Skip the pine nuts or use toasted sunflower seeds.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a main dish or pair with a side of hummus and pita.

• Serve cold as a light, refreshing salad.

• Top with avocado slices for extra creaminess.

Meal Prep Ideas

• Make ahead: Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 3 months, thaw overnight in the fridge before eating.

• Reheat: Warm in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Equipment List

• Large baking sheet

• Medium pot with lid

• Cutting board & sharp knife

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Spatula or mixing spoon

Grocery List

• 1 cup quinoa

• 2 cups vegetable broth or water

• 1 zucchini

• 1 red bell pepper

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes

• 1 cup broccoli

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 lemon

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley

• 2 tbsp pine nuts or sunflower seeds (optional)

This garlic lemon quinoa with roasted vegetables is a beginner-friendly plant-based meal that’s flavorful, nutritious, and easy to make. Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or just looking for a delicious and wholesome meal, this recipe is a must-try!