Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup matchstick-cut carrots
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 1 (10 ounce) can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes, with liquid
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup quinoa
- 4 ounces hot giardiniera
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
Why This Dish Is Worth Trying
Filled with protein and fiber, making it both filling and nutritious. The combination of spicy veggies and creamy white beans creates a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
Smart Cooking Tips
- Rinse the quinoa well before cooking to remove its natural bitterness.
- Use fresh garlic and chili peppers for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
- Toast the quinoa lightly in a dry pan before boiling to add a nutty depth.
- Use fresh garlic and chili peppers for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
- Toast the quinoa lightly in a dry pan before boiling to add a nutty depth.
Directions
Lightly heat some oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Toss in the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and onion, and cook them until they’re just tender but still have a bit of crunch—about 5 minutes. Then, add the beans, tomatoes, broth, quinoa, giardiniera, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pan. Give everything a good stir and bring it up to a boil. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer gently. Cook it until most of the liquid has been absorbed, which should take around 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.
Serving Variations
Serve this alongside a fresh green salad or with warm pita bread for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors.
How To Refrigerate This Dish
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it feels dry. This dish also freezes well for up to a month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of beans instead of white beans?
Yes, you can substitute with chickpeas or cannellini beans for a similar texture and flavor.
How spicy is the hot giardiniera in this dish?
It adds a moderate spicy kick, but you can adjust the amount or use mild giardiniera to reduce heat.
Can I cook the quinoa separately before adding it to the veggies?
You can, but cooking it together helps absorb flavors and saves time.
What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
Water or chicken broth works as a substitute, but broth adds more flavor.
How do I store leftovers and how long will they keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, all ingredients are plant-based, so it’s naturally vegan.
Is it okay to use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, use 1-2 minced garlic cloves and sauté with the veggies at the start.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms would work well.
