Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa

Name: Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa
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 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red onion, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love this Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa for its vibrant colors and flavors that make every bite a delight. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that showcases seasonal vegetables and a medley of fresh herbs. The crunchy texture of the roasted veggies paired with the nutty quinoa creates a perfect balance. Plus, it's a versatile dish that can serve as a main course or a hearty side. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, this quinoa bowl is a staple in my kitchen that I turn to time and again.

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:21:41.916Z

When I first tried cooking quinoa, I wanted to create something that was not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor. That's how this Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa came to life. I experimented with different herbs and seasonal veggies, and I was thrilled with the outcome. The roasting process intensifies the natural sweetness of the vegetables, and it complements the earthy taste of quinoa so well!

One of my favorite parts of making this dish is how versatile it is. You can swap in any vegetables you have on hand, whether it's bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. This flexibility keeps me excited about preparing it, and I enjoy discovering new flavor combinations every time I make it. Trust me, once you try this, you'll want to keep it in your weekly rotation!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Colorful and vibrant presentation that’s a feast for the eyes
Nutritious and filling, perfect for meal prep
Endless customization with seasonal vegetables and herbs

      

The Role of Quinoa

Quinoa is the star of this dish, thanks to its unique textural qualities and nutritional benefits. When cooked, quinoa becomes fluffy and slightly chewy, providing a satisfying base to balance the roasted veggies. Make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitter saponins that can affect the flavor. I suggest using a fine-mesh strainer for best results, as this ensures no grains are lost in the process.

Using vegetable broth instead of water to cook the quinoa elevates the overall taste of the dish significantly. It infuses the grains with a savory depth that complements the fresh, vibrant vegetables beautifully. If you're looking to reduce sodium intake, consider using low-sodium vegetable broth or making your own at home with scraps, such as onion skins and vegetable peels.

Perfecting Roasted Vegetables

Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in vegetables while adding delightful caramelization. Ensure that your veggies are evenly cut to guarantee they roast uniformly—aim for pieces that are about one inch in size. Check them halfway through the cooking time; if they seem to be browning too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) or cover them loosely with foil during the final minutes to prevent burning.

The herb combination of oregano and thyme not only enhances the flavor but also pairs perfectly with the nuttiness of quinoa. If fresh herbs are available, feel free to substitute them for dried. A tablespoon of fresh oregano or thyme can add even more brightness to the dish. Just remember that fresh herbs are more potent, so adjust the amount accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa:

Ingredients

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

Feel free to add or substitute other fresh vegetables that you love or have on hand!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Quinoa

In a pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.

Roast the Vegetables

While the quinoa cooks, place the diced zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and spread in a single layer.

Bake

Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Combine and Serve

Once the quinoa is cooked and the veggies are roasted, fluff the quinoa with a fork. Combine the roasted vegetables with the quinoa, mix well, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your wholesome Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa warm or as a refreshing cold salad!

Pro Tips

For extra protein, add some chickpeas or your favorite beans to the dish. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavors further.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can cook the quinoa and roast the vegetables ahead of time, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine them and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil to bring back moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the quinoa and roasted vegetables. Spread the cooled veggies on a baking sheet and freeze them individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents them from clumping together, allowing for easy portioning later. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat them in the oven to regain their crispy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can stand alone as a hearty meal, but it can also be dressed up in numerous ways. Serve it topped with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy finish that complements the roasted flavors. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens the dish and adds a refreshing zing that can elevate the entire experience.

For a protein boost, consider adding beans such as chickpeas or black beans. You can mix in a cup of canned beans, rinsed and drained, during the combining step, enhancing both the nutritional profile and the dish's heartiness. This also makes it a great vegetarian or vegan option, especially when garnished with avocado.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this quinoa dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can substitute quinoa with rice, farro, or couscous for a different texture.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Herb Roasted Veggie Quinoa is completely vegan and gluten-free.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used; just ensure they are thawed and drained before roasting.