This is an easy, gluten-free Mexican inspired meal that can be made in 30 minutes! This meal is simple but rich in flavors. This is one bowl that you can count on any day.
Sometimes you might think on making a quick meal with rich flavors without spending much time in the kitchen. Especially, after a long day, a comforting meal is awesome! That too if it is homemade, you will be willing to work extra 5-10 minutes before hitting the couch. This cilantro lime quinoa is one of that kind meal. Quinoa has a great nutritional profile and this meal is a healthy option.
When quinoa cooks, chop cilantro, fix a salad and/or make guacamole. If you have ready guacamole that's easy, or serve this quinoa with slices of avocado! More easier, right? Now that's a comforting meal!
This recipe uses a little lime zest which makes the flavor a little bold. Lime juice, garlic, jalapeno, and cilantro added to cooked quinoa makes an amazing meal. Did I tell that the leftovers can be refrigerated and used for next meal. This is easier to pack for next day lunch! Or whip the leftovers to a salad or burrito. My kids fix a burrito with this and they always request to make more! Some leftovers are amazing in making another meal.
Like this quick cilantro lime quinoa, I have a few quick and easy dinners that are comforting and satisfying. Arisi Upma, Chinese Style Poha, and Instant Buckwheat Dosa are gluten-free easy meals while Cracked Wheat Upma, Kodhuma Dosa, and Instant Broken Wheat Idli/Godhuma Rava Idli are wheat based ones! If you crave for warm and flavorful sandwiches Italian Style Grilled Cheese with Spinach and Spinach and Red Pepper Grilled Cheese are great options.
Ingredients
Quinoa - 1.5 cups
Salt - 1 and 1/4 tsp
Oil - 1 tsp
Jalapeno - 1, slit or chopped
Lime zest - 1/4 tsp
Lime juice - 1 tbsp
Cilantro - 1/2 cup, chopped
Garlic - 3/4 tsp, minced (optional)
Water - 2 and 2/3 cups
Method
In a heavy bottomed vessel, add water, salt, oil to quinoa and bring to a boil on a medium flame. Add a slit or chopped jalapeno for a little heat. Once it has absorbed more than half the liquid, cover and lower the flame. This may take about 5-7 minutes.
Cover and it cook for about 5-7 minutes to completely absorb all the liquid. Fluff and switch off the flame, cover and let rest for another 5 minutes.
Add the lime juice, garlic (if using), and zest, gently mix, cover, let it sit for 10 minutes.
Add the cilantro, mix.
Serve with slices of avocado, or guacamole, and/or salad.
We always order cilantro lime rice when eating at Mexican chains. This is a healthier option and will be great to serve as a side.
ReplyDeleteWow this is one interesting bowl Radha, very healthy and easy to assemble too..
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