Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Skillet

Name: Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love crafting vibrant meals that are not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. This herb roasted veggie quinoa skillet has become a staple in my kitchen, as it combines hearty vegetables with nutritious quinoa and aromatic herbs. I enjoy experimenting with seasonal veggies, and this dish provides the perfect canvas for that. Plus, it's easy to whip together on a busy weeknight, making it a delightful and wholesome option for family dinners or a quick meal prep. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:52:13.531Z

Creating this herb roasted veggie quinoa skillet was an exciting journey for me. I wanted to experiment with a medley of colorful vegetables and see how they complemented the nutty quinoa. By roasting the veggies, I discovered that their natural sweetness intensified, adding depth to the dish. The fresh herbs provided an invigorating aroma and flavor that I just can’t live without!

One of the tricks I learned while perfecting this recipe is to adjust the seasonings according to your taste buds. I often play around with the herbs and spices, and sometimes I even sprinkle a little feta cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. The balance of textures and tastes makes every bite a pleasure!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with nutritious veggies and protein-rich quinoa
Versatile recipe that allows for seasonal adaptations
A one-pan meal that makes cleanup a breeze

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of the Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Skillet lies in its versatility. I often use seasonal vegetables, which not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the nutritional profile. For example, in the summer, substitute bell peppers and zucchini with asparagus and snap peas. In the fall, consider adding hearty root vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash. This adaptability keeps the dish fresh and exciting throughout the year.

Each vegetable plays a specific role in this dish. Bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while zucchini provides moisture that balances the nuttiness of quinoa. Aromatic onions enhance overall flavor, infusing the dish with a savory depth. Cherry tomatoes bring brightness and a pop of acidity, contrasting beautifully with the earthiness of roasted vegetables. Knowing how these ingredients interact can elevate your cooking.

Perfecting Your Quinoa Technique

Cooking quinoa may seem straightforward, but it's essential to master the technique for a fluffy texture. Start by rinsing quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural coating, called saponins, which can impart a bitter taste. I recommend using a fine mesh strainer for this step. Once rinsed, the quinoa absorbs the vegetable broth, enriching its flavor. Ensure the broth reaches a rolling boil before reducing the heat to low; this helps the quinoa cook evenly without becoming mushy.

When simmering, keep the saucepan covered. This helps maintain steam and cooks the quinoa quickly in about 15 minutes. Afterward, let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes off the heat. This resting period allows the quinoa to finish cooking and results in a light, fluffy texture. If you notice your quinoa is still crunchy after 15 minutes, you may need to add a splash of water and cook a bit longer.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Skillet is perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious on the second day. If freezing, pack individual portions in freezer-friendly containers, and they can last up to three months. When reheating, add a dash of vegetable broth to restore moisture and heat it gently on the stovetop.

For a complete meal, consider pairing the skillet with grilled chicken or a crispy chickpea salad. Adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top can enhance creaminess and introduce a contrasting flavor. If you're looking for additional textures, serve it over a bed of fresh greens or use it as a filling for wraps.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this flavorful quinoa skillet:

Ingredients for Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa Skillet

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious herb roasted veggie quinoa skillet:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, toss together the diced bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, onion, and minced garlic with olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Roast the Veggies

Spread the seasoned vegetables in an even layer on the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.

Cook the Quinoa

While the vegetables are roasting, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

Combine and Serve

Once both the quinoa and vegetables are cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork. Add the roasted veggies to the quinoa, mixing gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the veggies based on what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, carrots, and broccoli work wonderfully too!

Herb Varieties and Their Impact

The choice of herbs in this recipe significantly affects its flavor profile. Using fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can introduce an entirely different dimension compared to dried ones. Consider adding herbs like dill or mint for a unique taste; they can brighten the dish and complement the roasted vegetables excellently.

When using dried herbs, remember that they are more concentrated in flavor than fresh ones. A general rule is to use one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh. This balance ensures that your dish remains aromatic and flavorful without overwhelming it with herbaceousness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your roasted vegetables aren’t caramelizing, ensure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause steaming rather than roasting, resulting in a lack of flavor. If you notice them sticking, a bit more olive oil or parchment paper can prevent that, allowing for an even roast.

In case you overcook your quinoa, don’t fret! You can blend it into smoothies or use it to make energy bites. Just remember to keep a close watch on the pot next time, as the cooking time can vary based on the heat and pot type. A non-stick saucepan can help in achieving a perfect cook without sticky residue.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This quinoa skillet recipe can easily be scaled up to serve a crowd. When doubling the recipe, extend the roasting time for the vegetables slightly, as larger batches may need extra time in the oven. However, be careful not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can lead to uneven cooking.

For smaller servings, you can halve the recipe without adjustments to the cooking times. Alternatively, consider preparing the full recipe and storing leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week. This meal is versatile enough that it can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it an ideal choice for various serving occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! You can substitute with farro, bulgur, or even brown rice for a different texture.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this dish is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the quinoa and roast the vegetables in advance, then simply combine them when ready to serve.