Delicious One-Pan Quinoa – Vegetarian Recipe

Busy days are officially here – let’s get cosy with One-Pan Quinoa! This easy recipe is a hearty quinoa that has colourful vegetables, garlic, and herbs together so the grains soak up all the flavour and turn tender and fluffy in a single pan. Think classic pilaf – with extra colour and far less fuss!

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If you think weeknight dinners and think wholesome, comforting, and low-effort, then this kind of one-pan quinoa is probably exactly what comes to mind. Unsurprising, given it’s become one of my most-cooked, most-loved meals at home!

Is it a main? Is it a side? It sort of sits between the two in terms of how you can serve it. One noticeable thing about this One-Pan Quinoa is that everything cooks together in the same skillet, with the quinoa absorbing the savoury broth so there’s no need for separate pots or extra cleanup. Also, it’s just as happy being served in bowls as a complete meal as it is alongside your favourite protein or a simple salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pan quinoa is everything you want in a quick, vegetarian meal.

Super easy: Everything cooks in one pot, cutting down prep and cleanup.

Flavorful: Quinoa soaks up the richness of sautéed vegetables, garlic, and herbs perfectly.

Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from veggies and quinoa.

Customizable: Swap vegetables with whatever is in season or in your fridge.

Quick to prepare: Ready in about 30–35 minutes, perfect for weeknights.

Family-friendly: Mild yet flavorful, loved by kids and adults alike.

Meal-prep friendly: Cools well for lunches or reheats easily for dinner.

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Ingredients

For the One-Pan Quinoa:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, chopped into small cubes
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Sliced green onions
• Crumbled feta or vegan cheese
• Lemon wedges

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables

Wash and dice all your vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. This ensures every bite is perfectly tender and flavorful.

2. Sauté aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. The kitchen will smell wonderfully savory at this point, which always makes me excited for the next step.

3. Add vegetables

Add the bell pepper, zucchini, carrot, and broccoli to the pan. Stir frequently for 4–5 minutes until they begin to soften but still have a little crunch. This step helps preserve the texture and color of the vegetables.

4. Cook quinoa

Pour the rinsed quinoa into the pan and stir to combine. Add vegetable broth, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried herbs. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.

5. Finish and fluff

Once cooked, remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff the quinoa with a fork, folding in the vegetables so everything is evenly distributed.

6. Garnish and serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the quinoa and add optional lemon wedges or crumbled cheese for extra flavor. Serve immediately while warm and vibrant.

Tips & Variations

• Extra protein: Add chickpeas, black beans, or tofu cubes while cooking for a heartier dish.
• Spice it up: Toss in chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
• Use different vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms work beautifully.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of tahini or coconut cream at the end for a richer flavor.
• Meal prep: Store in airtight containers for 3–4 days; reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to revive moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Delicious One-Pan Quinoa is perfect on its own for a light dinner or served alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Pair with a tangy yogurt dressing or a drizzle of olive oil and lemon for added brightness. For a heartier meal, I often serve it with warm naan or crusty bread. This quinoa dish works wonderfully as a cozy solo meal or a centerpiece for casual family dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I cook it in a rice cooker or Instant Pot?

Absolutely, just follow the manufacturer’s instructions for quinoa cooking, and stir in vegetables after steaming.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well; just add them a few minutes earlier to prevent overcooking.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan and proportionally increase the broth to keep the quinoa fluffy.

Is it safe to make ahead?

Perfect for meal prep. Keep the quinoa and toppings separate if possible, then combine when ready to serve for freshness.

Final Thoughts

Delicious One-Pan Quinoa proves that healthy, colorful meals don’t need extra effort or multiple pans. The combination of fluffy quinoa, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs makes it feel comforting and satisfying.

I love how this dish adapts to whatever I have on hand, making it a reliable and versatile weeknight option. Whether you eat it as a simple lunch or a wholesome dinner, it’s filling, flavorful, and completely fuss-free. Every bite feels nourishing, colorful, and satisfying.