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Tomato & Basil Quinoa Risotto Recipe

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4.4 from 15 reviews

A quick and delicious Tomato & Basil Quinoa Risotto that combines fresh and sun-dried tomatoes with aromatic basil, arugula, and zucchini for a healthy, flavorful one-pot meal. Ready in just 10 minutes, this risotto-style quinoa dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and can be enhanced with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa, cooked
  • 4 fresh tomatoes, small to medium-sized
  • 3 sun-dried tomatoes, soaked for 30 minutes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small zucchini or 1/2 large zucchini
  • 1/3 cup fresh basil
  • 1/3 cup fresh arugula
  • 1 garlic clove, minced

Optional Ingredients

  • Some mozzarella cheese
  • Some parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Make the tomato sauce: Blend 2 fresh tomatoes with the soaked sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and minced garlic using a hand blender or food processor until smooth to create a vibrant tomato sauce.
  2. Prep the vegetables: Chop the remaining 2 fresh tomatoes and the zucchini into small pieces to prepare for cooking.
  3. Cook the base: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium-sized pan over medium heat. Add the chopped fresh tomatoes and cook for 1 minute to soften. Then stir in the prepared tomato sauce. Add the cooked quinoa and cook while stirring for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
  4. Add greens: Mix in the chopped zucchini and fresh arugula. Stir well, adding a little more olive oil if needed to enhance the texture and flavor.
  5. Finish: Remove the pan from the heat and fold in optional mozzarella and parmesan cheese to taste. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Soaking sun-dried tomatoes for at least 30 minutes softens them for blending and enhances flavor.
  • Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best taste.
  • Quinoa should be pre-cooked before starting this recipe.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of olive oil to your preference.
  • This dish can be served as a light meal or a side dish.
  • For a vegan version, omit the cheese or use vegan cheese alternatives.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/tomato-and-basil-quinoa-risotto-recipe/