Ingredients
Scale
Creating a delightful vegan one pot dinner doesn’t require a long list of complicated ingredients. Instead, it’s about using fresh, vibrant produce and pantry staples to craft a dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Feel free to substitute vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. For example, kale can easily replace spinach, or add in some sweet potatoes for an extra hearty touch.
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Remember, the key to a successful one pot dinner is in the layering of flavors, much like Mama Lou used to do, adding love and care with each stir.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the carrots, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and chickpeas to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the quinoa, ensuring it is well incorporated. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Add the fresh spinach and lemon juice, stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and let the flavors meld together for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter around the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International