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Quinoa With Chickpeas

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  • #45318

A pleasing blend of legumes and grains. Quinoa is cooked in vegetable stock and mixed with chickpeas, red onion, and feta cheese. Perfect for a last minute side dish.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  under 30 minutes

ingredients

4 cups vegetable stock
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups quinoa
1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup finely minced red onion
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
salt and pepper, to taste

directions

Bring the vegetable stock and olive oil to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the quinoa and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and let simmer for 10 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed. Remove the pan from the heat and let stand for 5 minutes.

Fluff the quinoa with a fork then mix in the chickpeas, parsley, red onion, and feta cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

added by

Amy Powell, CDKitchen Staff
Read more: Strip Party!

recipe tips


Use a fine mesh strainer to rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water.

Cook the quinoa in stock for added flavor.

Let the quinoa sit covered for a few minutes after cooking to make sure it's absorbed all the liquid.

Fluff the quinoa gently with a fork to separate the grains.

Add the chickpeas while the quinoa is still warm so they absorb more flavor.

Use fresh parsley for a brighter flavor but dried parsley or other herbs can be added.

Dice the red onion finely for a more subtle flavor, leave the dice larger for a more pronounced flavor.

Crumble the feta cheese finely for even distribution.

Season the dish just before serving to adjust the flavors perfectly.

Serve as a side dish or add a protein like grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

common recipe questions


What color quinoa should I use?

White is the best choice but you can use any. Just keep in mind that red and black varieties of quinoa are often chewier and less tender.

Can I use a different type of stock?

Yes, you can use chicken or beef stock for a different flavor, or water if you prefer a lighter taste.

Is it necessary to rinse the quinoa before cooking?

Rinsing quinoa removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter or soapy. Thing is, most quinoa sold in the US has already had that removed so it's typically not necessary (but it won't hurt).

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand until they're tender.

How do I know when the quinoa is cooked?

Quinoa is done when it's tender and you can see tiny spirals (the germ) separating from and curling around the quinoa seeds.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or tomatoes can be great additions.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese, shredded mozzarella, or even vegan cheese as alternatives.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, it can be made in advance and refrigerated. It may be served cold or reheated.

How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I add nuts or seeds for extra crunch?

Yes, adding nuts like almonds or seeds like pumpkin seeds can add a nice crunch.


nutrition data

Nutritional data has not been calculated yet.


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