Seasoned Quinoa with Roasted Spring Veggies

Step 1

In a medium pot, saute 2 Tbsp chopped leeks in a bit of olive oil over medium heat. When browning add slices of mushroom and stir to coat. Let cook 2 minutes more. Add quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then cover and let simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed.

Step 2

While quinoa is cooking, prepare your veggies. In a skillet (cast iron is great) heat a teaspoon of med-high heat oil and add your beet slices. Sprinkle them with sea salt and let them cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until starting to brown in spots and tender. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3

Next the asparagus. Simply break off the bottom 2-3" of asparagus (it's woody) and discard. Add the rest to the same skillet. Sprinkle with sea salt, cover, and let cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4

Lastly, slice your leek into 1/2" rounds, starting at the base and working all the way up to the bottom of the green section (save green tops in your freezer to make a vegetable broth another day). Keep the leek rings intact in their concentric circles. Place them gently in the same skillet, with a bit of med-high heat oil, sprinkle with sea salt, cover them and let them cook 2-3 minutes until browning on the bottom and bright green and fragrant. Leave in pan, until ready to serve.

Step 5

When quinoa is fluffy, add balsamic vinegar, sea salt, paprika, turmeric, and black pepper. Stir and serve with pan-seared veggies. Drizzle with extra balsamic vinegar if desired. Enjoy!