Pasta with Garlic and Vegetables with Quinoa

This Pasta with Garlic and Vegetables with Quinoa is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of sautéed vegetables with the heartiness of quinoa and pasta. It's a perfect balance of health and comfort, making it an ideal main dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

• Pasta - 100 grams (spaghetti or penne)
• Quinoa - 50 grams (dry)
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 3 cloves (minced)
• Red bell pepper - 1 (diced)
• Zucchini - 1 (sliced)
• Spinach - 100 grams (fresh)
• Cherry tomatoes - 100 grams (halved)
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Parmesan cheese - 30 grams (grated, optional)
• Fresh basil - for garnish (optional)

Steps

1. In a small pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. In a separate large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the diced red bell pepper and sliced zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
5. Stir in the spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
6. Combine the cooked quinoa and pasta with the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to help combine.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 65 g
• Fiber: 10 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Total Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber from vegetables and quinoa, promoting digestive health.
• Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables, supporting overall health.

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