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.
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
- •1½ pounds zucchini
- •1½ teaspoons ground cumin
- •4 whole green onions
- •¼ cup fresh Italian parsley
Cooking Instructions
- 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.
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.
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.
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.
*Sometimes labeled Pimentón Dulce or Pimentón de La Vera Dulce; available at some supermarkets, at specialty foods stores, and from tienda.com.
- 6.
**A grain with a flavor and texture similar to couscous; available at natural foods stores.