Spicy Pumpkin and Quinoa Bowls

This dish is a warm embrace on a chilly day. The sweet and savory pumpkin paired with protein-rich quinoa makes for a nourishing meal.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup assorted roasted vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
  • Olive oil for drizzling
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

• Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
  3. In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree with smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread the roasted vegetables on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for about 20 minutes until tender.
  5. Serve the quinoa topped with pumpkin mixture and roasted vegetables. Garnish with parsley if desired.

• Flavor Profile: Sweet, smoky, and mildly spicy.

• Low Inflammation Friendliness: Rich in fiber and nutrients, pumpkin and quinoa are gentle on digestion and help combat inflammation.

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Savory Sweet Potato and Lentil Bake

Savory Sweet Potato and Lentil Bake

This bake will fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas and your belly with wholesome goodness.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onions until translucent.
  3. In a baking dish, layer sweet potato slices and cooked lentils. Sprinkle thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour vegetable broth over the layers and cover with foil.
  5. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.