Quinoa with Grilled Zucchini, Garbanzo Beans, and Cumin

A healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish combining protein-rich quinoa and garbanzo beans with grilled zucchini, seasoned with aromatic cumin, turmeric, and smoked paprika. Fresh herbs and lemon juice add brightness to this flavorful vegetarian meal.

6 servings
57 min

Ingredients

  • 1 can garbanzo beans
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  • pounds zucchini
  • teaspoons ground cumin
  • 4 whole green onions
  • ¼ cup fresh Italian parsley

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Combine garbanzo beans and lemon juice in large bowl. Add 3 tablespoons oil; press in garlic and stir to combine. Let marinate at least 15 minutes and up to 2 hours.

    15 min

  2. 2.

    Heat 1 tablespoon oil in medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add cumin seeds, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika; stir until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add 2 cups water, quinoa, and coarse salt; bring to simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer until all water is absorbed, about 16 minutes.

    20 min

  3. 3.

    Meanwhile, prepare barbecue (medium high heat). Place zucchini on rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon oil. Sprinkle with ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Toss to coat evenly.

    10 min

  4. 4.

    Place zucchini on grill; sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Grill until tender and browned on all sides, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to work surface. Cut crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces. Add zucchini, green onions, and parsley, then garbanzo bean mixture to quinoa. Toss to blend. Season with salt and pepper. DO AHEAD: Can be made 2 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature.

    12 min

  5. 5.

    *Sometimes labeled Pimentón Dulce or Pimentón de La Vera Dulce; available at some supermarkets, at specialty foods stores, and from tienda.com.

  6. 6.

    **A grain with a flavor and texture similar to couscous; available at natural foods stores.

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