Cozy up with a bowl of hearty quinoa with winter squash and carrot stew, a wholesome recipe that’s brimming with comforting flavors and vibrant nutrients. This plant-based dish features fluffy quinoa paired with a fragrant vegetable stew made with tender butternut squash, sweet carrots, and protein-packed chickpeas—all simmered in a rich blend of warm spices like cumin, cinnamon, and smoked paprika. The addition of crushed tomatoes and vegetable stock creates a luscious, spiced broth, while a touch of fresh parsley brightens every bite. Perfect for chilly evenings, this healthy and satisfying meal is not only easy to prepare but also naturally gluten-free and packed with fiber, making it an excellent option for vegetarians and anyone seeking a nutrient-dense, flavorful dinner. Serve it warm, topped with parsley, for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water in a fine mesh strainer.
In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until soft and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Add the diced winter squash, sliced carrots, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable stock. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for 20 minutes, or until the squash and carrots are tender.
Stir in the chickpeas, salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
To serve, fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and divide it among serving bowls.
Ladle the winter squash and carrot stew over the quinoa.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Calories |
2132 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 57.4 g | 74% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.3 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 5445 mg | 237% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 342.6 g | 125% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 60.8 g | 217% | |
| Total Sugars | 60.4 g | ||
| Protein | 81.8 g | 164% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 754 mg | 58% | |
| Iron | 28.7 mg | 159% | |
| Potassium | 5404 mg | 115% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.