When it comes to health dinner recipes, this simple dish is my absolute go-to! Packed with colorful veggies and nutritious quinoa, it’s easy to whip up even on the busiest of nights. I love how it embraces the goodness of broccoli and cherry tomatoes, making it a vibrant and delicious meal. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly! I often find myself turning to this recipe when I want something quick yet satisfying. You can have it ready in just 35 minutes, which means I’m not stuck in the kitchen for hours after a long day. The flavors are fresh, and the lemon juice at the end adds that perfect zesty pop. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll feel good about what you’re serving!
Ingredients List
To make this delightful dish, you’ll need just a handful of fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 2 cups of broccoli florets (about one medium head of broccoli, chopped)
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved (that’s roughly 10-12 tomatoes)
- 1 cup of cooked quinoa (you can use pre-cooked or cook it fresh)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil (extra virgin for a bolder flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (or you can use fresh minced garlic if preferred)
- Salt to taste (start with about 1/2 teaspoon)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is best, but any will do)
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice)
These ingredients blend beautifully, creating a colorful and nutritious dinner that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate!
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating! Set it to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because preheating ensures your veggies cook evenly and get that lovely roasted flavor. Don’t skip this part—it makes a world of difference in the final dish!
Mix the Ingredients
Now, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your broccoli florets, halved cherry tomatoes, and cooked quinoa. Drizzle the olive oil over the top, then sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently mix everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated and combined. It should look colorful and inviting!
Spread and Bake
Next, take a baking sheet and spread your delicious mixture evenly across it. Make sure the veggies aren’t piled too high; this will help them roast nicely. Pop the baking sheet in the oven and set a timer for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—when you can pierce the broccoli easily with a fork, they’re ready to come out!
Final Touches
Once your veggies are perfectly tender, take them out of the oven and drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the top. This step isn’t just for show; it brightens the flavors and gives the dish that fresh zing! Give it a gentle toss before serving, and enjoy your healthy dinner!
Nutritional Information Section
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for one serving of this healthy dinner recipe:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
These values are estimates, but they give you a great idea of how nutritious this dish is. Packed with vitamins and minerals, it’s a fantastic guilt-free meal option!
Tips for Success
To make sure your healthy dinner recipe turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, don’t overcook the vegetables—keep an eye on them; you want them tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp. If you like a little extra crunch, consider adding the cherry tomatoes halfway through the bake time. Also, remember to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking; a little more salt or pepper can elevate the flavors. Lastly, if you’re unsure about the quinoa, check the package instructions for the right cooking time. It should be fluffy and not mushy. Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Variations
This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to get creative! If you want to boost the protein, try adding some cooked chicken or tofu. Just cube them up and mix them in with the veggies before baking. You can also switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus work wonderfully in this dish. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some spices like paprika or cumin for an extra kick! The possibilities are endless, and it’s a great way to use up any leftover veggies in your fridge!
Serving Suggestions
This healthy dinner recipe pairs beautifully with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad for a refreshing crunch. Consider serving it with a dollop of hummus or a creamy avocado dressing to add a little flair. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon makes for a perfect beverage pairing. These sides not only enhance the meal but also round out the dining experience with delightful textures and flavors!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers is a breeze with this dish! Once it’s cooled down, transfer any extras to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to three days, so you can enjoy it again without any fuss. When you’re ready to reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer, you can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Just add a splash of water to keep the veggies from drying out. Enjoy your quick and easy healthy dinner again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious veggies and protein-rich quinoa, it’s a guilt-free meal.
- Vegan-Friendly: This dish is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for various diets.
- Endless Versatility: Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a unique twist every time.
- Easy Cleanup: One pan cooking means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal!
For more information on the health benefits of quinoa, you can visit Healthline. Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about the nutritional value of broccoli, check out Medical News Today.
Print
Health Dinner Recipes: 5 Steps to a Delightful Meal
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A simple and healthy dinner recipe that is perfect for beginners. This dish is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of cooked quinoa
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix broccoli, cherry tomatoes, cooked quinoa, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice before serving.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the vegetables.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- You can add chicken or tofu for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Healthy
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: health dinner recipes
