Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa

Name: Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love creating vibrant and flavorful dishes, and Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa is a prime example of my culinary passion. This recipe combines the goodness of roasted tomatoes with the fragrant aroma of fresh basil, all nestled in a bed of fluffy quinoa. It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Additionally, it’s incredibly versatile — serve it warm as a side dish or chilled in a salad. I’m excited to share this delightful recipe that always leaves my guests wanting more.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:28:11.705Z

When I first made Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa, I was blown away by how simple ingredients could come together to create such a delightful dish. I roasted the tomatoes until they burst with flavor, and I found that adding a pinch of salt and pepper really heightened their natural sweetness. The combination with quinoa not only provided a great texture but also turned it into a filling and nutritious meal that could easily be a main or a side.

One of my favorite tips is to use fresh basil, which I always chop just before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma. It’s a small detail, but it really makes a difference. This dish quickly became a family favorite, and I love how it showcases the freshness of summer produce, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner at home.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten any meal
Nutritious quinoa packed with plant-based protein
Easy to customize with seasonal vegetables and herbs

      

The Role of Quinoa

Quinoa is not only a gluten-free grain but also a complete source of plant-based protein. It contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent foundation for this dish. When properly cooked, quinoa should be fluffy and slightly chewy. Rinsing the quinoa before cooking is crucial to remove its natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. For the best texture, aim for a ratio of 1 cup quinoa to 2 cups liquid, allowing the quinoa to absorb the flavors of the vegetable broth beautifully.

For those looking for an alternative to quinoa, millet or bulgur can be used, but be aware that cooking times and water ratios may differ. When using bulgur, for instance, you’ll only need to soak it in boiling water for about 12-15 minutes instead of simmering. This substitute allows for a different texture and flavor profile but still complements the roasted tomatoes and basil.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Fresh basil is the star of this recipe, contributing a fragrant aroma that elevates the roasted tomatoes. Always opt for fresh basil over dried for maximum flavor impact. To chop basil, stack leaves, roll them tightly, and slice them thinly for a technique called chiffonade. This method ensures that the herbs disperse evenly throughout the dish, imparting their essence into every bite.

If fresh basil isn’t available, consider experimenting with other herbs like parsley or oregano, though they will create a different flavor profile. For a spicy kick, you could also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture—a delicious contrast to the sweet, caramelized tomatoes.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to create this delicious Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa:

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure to adjust seasonings to your taste for the perfect balance of flavors.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa:

Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20 minutes or until they are bursting and caramelized.

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in the roasted tomatoes, minced garlic, fresh basil, and lemon juice. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm or chilled, and enjoy this flavorful dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding feta cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This recipe is also great for meal prep
simply store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa is perfect for meal prep. You can roast the tomatoes and cook the quinoa a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the ingredients, add the fresh basil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Heating can be done gently in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the dish.

If you’d like to serve this dish cold, you can allow it to chill in the fridge for about an hour after combining all the ingredients. This makes for a refreshing side salad during warmer months. Adding a handful of mixed greens can enhance its nutritional value and offer a nice textural contrast.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve it warm as a vibrant side dish to grilled chicken or fish. The brightness of the dish complements the rich flavors of the proteins beautifully. Alternatively, you can pile it high on a bed of arugula or spinach for a hearty lunch option. Top with feta cheese or avocado slices for an added creaminess and richness.

Another creative serving idea is to use this quinoa as a filling for stuffed bell peppers. Mix in additional vegetables such as diced zucchini or onion, stuff the mixture into halved peppers, and bake until the peppers are tender. This dish not only looks stunning but also infuses more nutritional benefits by incorporating additional veggies.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute with other types of tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Roasted chickpeas or grilled chicken would complement this quinoa beautifully.