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Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl - Simple, Flavorful, and Satisfying

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Quinoa: 1 cup uncooked (white, red, or tri-color)
  • Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, whole
  • 1 small head broccoli, cut into florets
  • 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed (optional but great)
  • Balsamic glaze: 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar + 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
  • Olive oil: 3 tablespoons, divided
  • Garlic: 2–3 cloves, minced
  • Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon (for the dressing)
  • Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon, fresh
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Italian seasoning or dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Red pepper flakes: Pinch, optional
  • Fresh herbs: Parsley or basil for garnish
  • Optional add-ons: Crumbled feta, avocado, chickpeas, or toasted pine nuts

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven. Set to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment for easy cleanup.
  2. Prep the vegetables. Toss bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and sweet potato with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and Italian seasoning. Spread in a single layer on the sheet pan.
  3. Roast. Place the pan on the middle rack and roast for 20–25 minutes, tossing halfway. Aim for caramelized edges and tender centers.
  4. Cook the quinoa. Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa with 2 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Turn off heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  5. Make the balsamic drizzle. In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon, 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust to taste—more vinegar for tang, more sweetener for balance.
  6. Finish the vegetables. When the veggies are done, drizzle about half the balsamic mixture over them on the hot pan and toss. The heat helps the flavors cling to the vegetables.
  7. Assemble the bowls. Spoon quinoa into bowls, top with roasted vegetables, and drizzle with the remaining balsamic dressing.
  8. Garnish and add extras. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil. Add feta, avocado slices, chickpeas, or toasted nuts if you like. Finish with a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.