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One Pot Quinoa And Chickpea Recipe

One Pot Quinoa And Chickpea Recipe - Easy Meals To Cook

A busy weeknight. You’ve just returned from work, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. This is where the magic of one pot quinoa and chickpeas comes into play. 
As a registered dietitian and avid cook, I can assure you this meal is not only simple but packed with flavors and nutrients. In one pot, you get a complete dish that fills you up without weighing you down.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 3
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas about 1 15-ounce can
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, separated
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 inch fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 large sun-dried tomatoes oil-packed, jarred
  • 3/4 cup passata or strained tomatoes
  • 1 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable stock
  • 1/3 cup golden raisins, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa
  1. Start by rinsing the quinoa under cold water. This removes any bitterness. In a medium-sized pot, combine the quinoa with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to low heat.
  2. Cover and let it simmer until the water is absorbed, approximately 15 minutes. Once done, fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. In the same pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, throw in the minced garlic and ginger. Stir continuously for about a minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes
  1. Now, add the smoked paprika and cumin to the pot. Stir them in for a few seconds to release their flavors. Then, toss in the sun-dried tomatoes, passata, and the vegetable stock. Mix well.
Step 4: Combine & Cook
  1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Next, add the cooked chickpeas, golden raisins, and the quinoa. Stir until everything is well combined. Add additional salt if needed.
Step 5: Let It Simmer
  1. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
  1. Once done, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice before serving. This final touch brightens up the dish with freshness.

Notes

  • Meal Prep: This dish can be prepared ahead of time. It stores well in the fridge for up to four days.
  • Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of cayenne can provide an exciting kick.
  • Add More Veggies: Consider throwing in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
  • Adjust Texture: If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk during cooking.
  • Flavor Enhancements: Top with crumbled feta cheese or avocados for extra richness.