Quinoa pilaf with carrot and celery
Discover a delightful and healthy Quinoa Pilaf recipe featuring nutty quinoa, aromatic fennel, crisp celery, sweet carrot, and tender onions all simmered together to perfection. This easy-to-make, nutritious dish makes the perfect side or vegetarian main course, bringing vibrant flavors and wholesome goodness to your table.
- 16 May 2025
- Cook time 25 min
- Prep time 10 min
- 8 Servings
- 7 Ingredients
Quinoa pilaf with carrot and celery is a delicious and nutritious dish that brings together the nutty flavor of quinoa with the delicate aniseed notes of fennel. This recipe is a great option for a healthy side dish or a light main course. Packed with fiber and vitamins, it’s a colorful and flavorful way to enjoy a balanced meal.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- Trim the fennel bulb, then chop it into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Wash and finely dice the celery stalk.
- Peel and dice the carrot.
- Finely chop the half onion.
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and 1.5 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
- Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
- While the quinoa is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped fennel, celery, and onion to the skillet.
- Cook and stir occasionally for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and translucent.
- Add the diced carrot to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the carrot is slightly softened.
- Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork.
- Add the quinoa to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
- Serve warm as a side dish or a light main course.
Tips:
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter or soapy.
- Try to cut all your vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- To enhance the flavor, consider toasting the quinoa in the pan for a few minutes before adding the water.
- You can add more herbs or spices like thyme, bay leaves, or garlic to enrich the flavor profile of the dish.
- For a vegan version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative.
- This pilaf can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat before serving.
This quinoa pilaf with carrot and celery is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious and delicious addition to your meal plan. It's easy to prepare and offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy. Serve it as a main dish or a side to complement your favorite protein.
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 120 grams |
| Energy | |
| Calories 55kcal | 3% |
| Protein | |
| Protein 1.49g | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | |
| Carbohydrates 8g | 2% |
| Fiber 1.96g | 5% |
| Sugar 2.24g | 2% |
| Fat | |
| Fat 1.96g | 2% |
| Saturated 0.89g | 3% |
| Cholesterol 4.17mg | - |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A 100ug | 12% |
| Choline 11mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B1 0.04mg | 3% |
| Vitamin B2 0.04mg | 3% |
| Vitamin B3 0.39mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B6 0.06mg | 4% |
| Vitamin B9 22ug | 5% |
| Vitamin B12 0.00ug | 0% |
| Vitamin C 4.76mg | 5% |
| Vitamin E 0.38mg | 3% |
| Vitamin K 22ug | 18% |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium, Ca 30mg | 2% |
| Copper, Cu 0.07mg | 8% |
| Iron, Fe 0.59mg | 5% |
| Magnesium, Mg 22mg | 5% |
| Phosphorus, P 55mg | 4% |
| Potassium, K 210mg | 6% |
| Selenium, Se 0.83ug | 2% |
| Sodium, Na 27mg | 2% |
| Zinc, Zn 0.33mg | 3% |
| Water | |
| Water 110g | - |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |
More recipes
Italian-style green beans and potatoes with garlic
Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this golden combination will surely delight your taste buds.
30 Mar 2025Buttered corn with coriander and chili powder
Ready in minutes, this recipe combines creamy and spicy for an irresistible combo.
28 Apr 2025Zucchini with olive oil, vinegar, butter and spearmint
A simple yet flavorful side dish that brings a refreshing touch to any meal.
03 Mar 2025Cauliflower with tarragon butter
Ready in minutes, it's a delightful way to enjoy healthy cooking with gourmet flavors.
17 May 2025