Welcome to another delightful recipe feature at Roots Food Group. Today, we're diving into a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines Mexican cuisine's bold flavors with quinoa's health benefits. This One-Skillet Mexican Quinoa is packed with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner for families on the go. Let's explore the recipe, its roots, and its place in a healthy diet.
The Story Behind the Dish
This One Skillet Mexican Quinoa recipe is inspired by traditional Mexican flavors and ingredients known for their vibrant and hearty dishes. Although originally from the Andean region of South America, Quinoa has been embraced globally for its versatility and nutritional benefits. This dish marries the ancient grain with classic Mexican ingredients to create a contemporary, health-focused meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Benefits
- Quinoa: A complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids, quinoa is also high in fiber and iron.
- Black Beans: Excellent source of protein, fiber, and key vitamins that support heart health and digestion.
- Avocado: Loaded with healthy fats, potassium, and fiber to promote heart health and overall wellness.
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Adds an antioxidant boost with vitamins C and K.
Cultural Meaning
Mexican cuisine often features dishes that are both communal and celebratory. This One-Skillet Mexican Quinoa captures the spirit of a shared meal that is easy to prepare and enjoyable, making it perfect for gathering friends and family around the dinner table.
The Recipe
Ingredients
• 1 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 medium jalapeño pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14.5 oz) can fire- roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 cup yellow corn
• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 Tbsp. Red pepper flakes, or to taste
• 1 1⁄2 tsp. chili powder
• 1⁄2 tsp. ground cumin
• Kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 medium avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
• 1 medium lime, juiced
• 2 Tbsp. Fresh cilantro, chopped
Directions
Step 1: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté jalapeño pepper and garlic in the hot oil until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 2: Stir black beans, tomatoes, corn, quinoa, and chicken broth into the skillet. Season with pepper flakes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper; boil.
Step 3: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to low, and simmer until quinoa is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed, about 20 minutes.
Step 4: Add avocado, lime juice, and cilantro and stir until combined.
In conclusion, One Skillet Mexican Quinoa is more than just a meal; it celebrates rich flavors and nutritious ingredients that can bring people together. It stands as a testament to the adaptability of traditional cuisines to incorporate new, healthful ingredients without losing the essence of what makes them special. Enjoy this delicious, one-pot wonder any night of the week!
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