Mexican food with quinoa

Delicious Quinoa Recipe with Peppers and Cheese – A Special Indulgence

When it comes to treating someone special, nothing compares to a meal cooked with love. Today, I will share with you a simple and flavorful recipe that will transform an ordinary day into a special moment. Quinoa with peppers and cheese is not only a tasty dish but also a perfect example of how healthy ingredients can become an unforgettable culinary experience.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients
- 150 g quinoa
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, chopped
- 230 g tomato sauce
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 2 hot peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1 tablespoon of oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1 teaspoon of dried chili
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 bell peppers (one red and one yellow), chopped
- 100 g melting cheese (a mix of telemea and cheddar, grated)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Brief History
Quinoa, an ancient food, has been cultivated for millennia and is known as the "Incan gold" due to its nutritional value. This recipe combines culinary traditions with fresh ingredients, creating a meal that not only nourishes but also delights.

Preparation Method

1. Preparing the Quinoa
The first step to achieving perfect quinoa is washing it. Use a fine sieve to remove the saponins, which can impart a bitter taste. Rinse the quinoa under cold running water for 2-3 minutes. Then, place the quinoa in a pot and add 450 ml of water (3 parts water to 1 part quinoa). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let simmer for 15 minutes. After this time, turn off the heat and let the quinoa sit covered for another 5 minutes.

2. Preparing the Tomato Sauce
In a small pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent. Then, add the chopped tomato, tomato sauce, and hot pepper. Let simmer on low heat for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This sauce will provide a delicious base for the quinoa.

3. Preparing the Peppers
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bell peppers. Let them cook without stirring for 3 minutes to form a golden crust. Then stir and let them brown for a few more minutes. Remove half of the peppers and set aside.

4. Final Combination
Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet over the remaining peppers and sprinkle with cumin. Sauté for 2 minutes, mixing well. Combine the quinoa mixture with the tomato sauce and half of the grated cheese. Add salt and dried chili to taste.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking dish with a little oil and transfer the quinoa mixture into it. Decorate with the reserved peppers and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After this, remove the foil and let it bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and appetizing.

6. Serving
Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. You can serve this simple delicacy on its own or alongside a fresh salad, which will add a crunchy and refreshing contrast.

Practical Tips
- Veggie Option: If you want to make the recipe vegan, replace the cheese with a vegan alternative or simply omit it.
- Additions: You can add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to vary the texture and flavor.
- Intense Flavor: If you like spicy food, feel free to add more hot peppers or even a dash of hot sauce at the end.

Nutritional Benefits
Quinoa is an excellent source of complete protein, rich in fiber and B vitamins. It helps maintain healthy digestion and provides a feeling of fullness, making it perfect for those looking to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-cooked quinoa?
Yes, if you have pre-cooked quinoa, you can skip the boiling steps. Just add it directly to the pepper and tomato sauce mixture, but adjust the cooking time.

2. How can I store leftovers?
This recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

3. What can I pair this dish with?
An arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and lemon dressing or a light vegetable soup would be excellent accompaniments to complete the meal.

Conclusion
Quinoa with peppers and cheese is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that combines health and delight. With the simple steps I have presented, you will be able to treat your loved ones to a special meal, full of flavors and colors. So, let’s enjoy cooking and the beautiful moments spent with our loved ones!