Core Recipe

Vegetables: Any mix of your favorite chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or broccoli.

Quinoa: A cooked, protein-rich grain that adds texture and nutrition to the dish.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing and adding a rich flavor to the dish.

Garlic: Freshly minced cloves that provide a fragrant and savory base.

Salt: Used to season and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

When sautéing the garlic, make sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent it from burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to your dish. Aim for a light golden color before adding the chopped vegetables.

• chopped vegetables - Substitute with frozen mixed vegetables: Convenient and often pre-chopped, making preparation quicker.

• cooked quinoa - Substitute with cooked brown rice: Provides a similar texture and is also a good source of fiber and nutrients.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Has a similar healthy fat profile and a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Offers a similar flavor profile and is more convenient if fresh garlic is not available.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Adds a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• Allow the Core Recipe to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

• Transfer the cooled Core Recipe into an airtight container. Ensure the container is clean and dry to maintain the freshness of the vegetables and quinoa.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The Core Recipe can be kept fresh for up to 4-5 days.

• For longer storage, portion the Core Recipe into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Label each container with the date to keep track of freshness.

• Place the containers or bags in the freezer. The Core Recipe can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without losing its flavor and texture.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the Core Recipe in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps retain the quality of the vegetables and quinoa.

• Reheat the thawed Core Recipe in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring in between to ensure even heating.

• If the Core Recipe seems dry after reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or a drizzle of olive oil to restore its moisture and enhance the flavors.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of vegetable broth to prevent sticking.
  3. Add the leftover Core Recipe and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the Core Recipe in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the Core Recipe evenly in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Set up a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water.
  2. Place the Core Recipe in the basket.
  3. Cover and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

• Saucepan: Used to heat the olive oil and cook the vegetables and quinoa mixture.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the garlic, vegetables, and quinoa without scratching the saucepan.

• Chef's knife: Essential for chopping the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping vegetables.

• Garlic press: Useful for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.

• Measuring cups: Needed to measure out the correct amounts of vegetables and cooked quinoa.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the olive oil and salt accurately.

• Serving bowl: For presenting the finished dish in an appealing manner.

Pre-chop vegetables: Chop all your vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge. This saves time during cooking.

Cook quinoa ahead: Prepare a large batch of quinoa and store it in the refrigerator. This way, you can quickly add it to your recipes.

Use frozen vegetables: Keep a variety of frozen vegetables on hand. They are pre-chopped and cook quickly.

Garlic paste: Use pre-minced garlic paste to save time on peeling and chopping.

One-pan cooking: Use a single saucepan to reduce cleanup time.