Menu

Quinoa e Spinaci (Quinoa and Spinach)

Italian30 Minutes
Punchline

Quinoa e Spinaci is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together the earthy flavor of quinoa with the vibrant taste of spinach for a healthy meal that's quick to prepare.

ingredients
quinoa1cup
spinach4cups
olive oil2tablespoon
garlic3cloves
vegetable broth2cups
lemon1piece
salt1teaspoon
pepper½teaspoon
instructions
    1

    Begin by rinsing 1 cup of quinoa under cold water for about 1 minute to remove any bitterness. This step is important, so don’t skip it!

    2

    In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

    3

    While the quinoa is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but don't let it brown.

    4

    Add 4 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until wilted.

    5

    Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the spinach. Stir everything together to combine, and season with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.

    6

    Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the dish, give it a final stir, and then serve warm.

Servings

4

How to be creative
  • Add cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.
  • Incorporate chickpeas for added protein and texture.
  • Top with toasted pine nuts or almonds for a crunch.
Important Tips
  • For a flavor boost, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
  • Ensure your quinoa is well-rinsed to avoid any bitter taste.
  • Feel free to substitute the spinach with kale for a different flavor profile.
nutritions
  • fat: 8g
  • fiber: 5g
  • sugars: 2g
  • protein: 8g
  • calories: 250
  • carbohydrates: 40g
Health impact

Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians. Spinach is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, contributing to overall health and immunity.