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In the world of healthy eating, it can be a challenge to find meals that are both nutritious and satisfying. The Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl not only meets these criteria but also packs a flavor punch that will delight your taste buds. This vibrant dish combines protein-rich chickpeas and quinoa with fresh vegetables, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to nourish their body without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re a busy professional, a college student, or a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, this recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious and wholesome recipe.

Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl for Busy Nights

Discover the vibrant flavors of the Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl, a nutritious and satisfying meal perfect for any busy lifestyle. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, fluffy quinoa, and fresh vegetables, this recipe not only fuels your body but also excites your taste buds. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s an ideal choice for meal prep or a delicious dinner any night of the week. Dive into this wholesome dish and enjoy a burst of health in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained

2 cups vegetable broth or water

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on spice preference)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 ripe avocado, sliced

1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped

Juice of 1 lime

Optional: hot sauce for an extra kick

Instructions
 

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid has been absorbed. Afterward, remove it from the heat and let it rest, still covered, for an additional 5 minutes to ensure perfect fluffiness.

    Prepare the Chickpeas: While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the rinsed chickpeas along with the smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat the chickpeas evenly with the spices. Sauté for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

      Sauté the Vegetables: Incorporate the diced red bell pepper into the skillet with the seasoned chickpeas. Continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pepper is tender and the chickpeas become slightly crispy on the outside. For an added layer of heat, you can drizzle your favorite hot sauce during this step.

        Combine Everything: Once the quinoa is done, fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fluffy quinoa with the sautéed chickpeas and red bell pepper mixture. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and squeeze the juice of one lime over the top. Toss everything gently to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

          Serve: Portion the quinoa and chickpea mixture into individual bowls. Top each bowl with generous slices of ripe avocado and a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro. If desired, drizzle extra lime juice or a few dashes of hot sauce to enhance the flavor.

            Enjoy: Your Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl is ready to serve! Not only is it vibrant and delicious, but it also offers a wonderful balance of flavors and nutrients. This dish is ideal for busy nights, taking just 30 minutes to prepare and serving up to 4 people.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings