Healthy Dinner Roasted Veggie Quinoa Plate

Name: Healthy Dinner Roasted Veggie Quinoa Plate
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 carrot, sliced; 1 red onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

I love whipping up quick and nutritious meals, and the Healthy Dinner Roasted Veggie Quinoa Plate fits the bill perfectly! This dish combines colorful roasted vegetables with protein-rich quinoa, making it a filling and satisfying dinner option. The best part is that you can customize the veggies based on what you have on hand, so it’s versatile and fun to prepare. Plus, it takes less than an hour from start to finish, making it a go-to choice for busy weekdays.

Created by

Esmeray Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:25:35.537Z

Creating this Healthy Dinner Roasted Veggie Quinoa Plate was an unexpected delight! I started by experimenting with a variety of seasonal vegetables, and I was amazed at how the flavors developed as they roasted. The key is to cut the veggies into evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly, and using olive oil adds not just flavor but also texture. I also toss in a sprinkle of my favorite herbs to elevate the dish even further.

One evening, I served it to friends, and they couldn't believe how simple yet delicious this meal was. The quinoa adds a nice nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the roasted veggies beautifully. I like to add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for an extra zing; it ties everything together and brightens the flavors!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors and flavors in every bite
Nutritious and filling, perfect for any meal
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies

      

Timing and Technique for Perfectly Roasted Veggies

Roasting vegetables at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of tenderness and caramelization. At 400°F (200°C), they typically develop a lovely golden color and a slightly sweet flavor as the natural sugars become more concentrated. I recommend keeping an eye on them around the 20-minute mark; give them a stir to ensure even roasting, especially in the corners where the heat can be more intense.

Using a parchment-lined baking sheet not only promotes easy cleanup but also helps achieve a better roast. The parchment allows the moisture to escape while preventing the vegetables from sticking. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; if necessary, use two sheets so the veggies can spread out. Crowded veggies tend to steam rather than roast, leading to a less appealing texture.

Quinoa: The Nutritional Powerhouse

Quinoa is more than just a hearty grain; it's a complete protein source, which makes it a fantastic option for a filling dinner. Rinsing the quinoa before cooking is vital to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. An excellent tip is to rinse it under cold water in a fine mesh strainer for about 30 seconds, ensuring it's well-drained before adding it to the pot with the broth.

For flavor enhancement, consider using vegetable broth instead of water when cooking quinoa. It infuses the grain with a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the roasted veggies. Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains—this prevents it from becoming mushy and helps maintain its delightful texture.

Ingredients

Roasted Veggies

1 zucchini, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 carrot, sliced
1 red onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano

Quinoa

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

Roast the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine chopped zucchini, bell pepper, carrot, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Toss well to coat and spread evenly on the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through until tender and caramelized.

Cook the Quinoa

In a pot, combine rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.

Combine and Serve

Once the veggies are roasted, mix them with the quinoa in a serving dish. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

Pro Tips

For extra protein, add chickpeas or beans to the quinoa. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Roasted Veggie Quinoa Plate is a perfect candidate for meal prepping. You can roast the vegetables and cook the quinoa a day or two in advance. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The veggies will keep well for about 3-4 days, while the quinoa typically lasts up to a week. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring back moisture.

If you're considering freezing portions for later, pack the roasted veggies and quinoa in separate freezer-safe containers. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then pop them in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Feel free to get creative with the vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preferences. Sweet potatoes, asparagus, or even broccoli can make excellent substitutions or additions. If you enjoy spice, sprinkle some chili flakes over the vegetables before roasting for an extra kick. You can also switch up the herbs; fresh thyme or basil can bring a fresh twist to the dish.

For an added flavor boost, consider drizzling a tahini or yogurt-based sauce over the plate just before serving. This not only enhances taste but adds a creaminess that contrasts nicely with the crunchy roasted veggies. You can also top it with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a touch of brightness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any seasonal or leftover vegetables you have.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients used are plant-based!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the quinoa plate?

Yes, you can freeze it. Just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.