This recipe can be completely plant-based, or you can add chicken or fish, tofu, or a vegan meat alternative if you choose.

Josh and I try and eat plant-based as much as possible – though I generally listen to what my body is telling me it needs and just go with that. I noticed that whenever my cycle is approaching or I am having back pain or really bad adrenal issues, I crave meat the most. And when I am feeling good, I only want plant-based, like this veggie quinoa dish. I guess I am an intuitive eater?

Anyways, here’s the recipe! Let me know in the comments if you try this and how you make it your own!

Veggie Quinoa with Lemon-Garlic Tahini Dressing

                                   (Serves 2)

This recipe we only had this once, but it was so good, I want to make it a regular staple. I used what veggies we had on hand, but you can use whatever veggies you like. 🙂

1. 1 cup quinoa
2. 2 cups of water
3. 1 can of organic kidney beans or chic peas
4. 1/2 zucchini chopped
5. 3 organic baby carrots, chopped
6. 3-5 baby bella mushrooms, sliced
7. 1/2-1 tomato, diced
8. big handful of organic baby spinach, julienned
9. 1/2 small red onion, diced

Dressing:

1. 2 Tbsp of Tahini sauce
2. 2 Tbsp of water (or none depending on how much water is left once the quinoa is done, as the veggies may add more)
3. juice of one lemon
4. 1 clove of garlic, minced
5. sea salt and pepper to taste (I use pink Himalayan sea salt)
6. 1/8 tsp nutritional yeast (optional)
7. dash of cayenne pepper (optional)

Heat quinoa and water until boiling, then cover and simmer for about 15 minutes. When there is minimal water remaining (around the 2-minute mark), add the veggies and stir ( you just want to warm them, not cook them.) Meanwhile, whisk or blend dressing ingredients in a bowl or blender.

When the timer goes off, remove the veggie-quinoa mixture from the heat and add the dressing. Stir and serve. I like to have a nice glass of white wine with this dish. 😉

Let me know if you have any recipes you’d like to share – I’m always looking for new things to make! You can also check out my green smoothie recipes here.

Chat soon!

Brie xo

*All photos are from Pexels. Recipe originally written in 2013.