Balsamic Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Bowl with Chickpeas and Lentils

This Balsamic Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Bowl is a hearty, nutritious dish packed with flavors and textures from roasted veggies, protein-rich chickpeas, and lentils. Drizzled with a tangy balsamic reduction, it’s a delightful meal perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• Quinoa - 1 cup
• Chickpeas (canned, drained and rinsed) - 1 cup
• Green lentils (dry) - 1/2 cup
• Red bell pepper - 1 medium, chopped
• Zucchini - 1 medium, chopped
• Carrot - 1 medium, sliced
• Red onion - 1 medium, chopped
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Balsamic vinegar - 3 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a medium pot, combine the green lentils with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. While the lentils are cooking, rinse the quinoa under cold water. In another pot, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine the chopped red bell pepper, zucchini, carrot, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. In a serving bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, lentils, and roasted vegetables. Toss gently to mix.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 500
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbs: 80 g
• Fiber: 18 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in plant-based protein and fiber, supporting digestive health.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals from a variety of vegetables, contributing to overall well-being.

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