Spicy Quinoa Pilaf with Peppers & Onions | Easy, Flavor-Packed Recipe

A quick, bold, and nutrient-packed dish that brings heat, vibrant color, and satisfying texture to your table. Whether you need a hearty side or a light, feel-good main course, this Spicy Quinoa Pilaf is ready to become a new staple. High in fiber, naturally gluten-free, and meal-prep friendly — it’s flavor-packed comfort without the heaviness.

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⏳ Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
  
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
  
• Total Time: 40 minutes
  
• Servings: 4
  
• ✅ Gluten-Free | ✅ Anti-Inflammatory | ✅ Easy Meal Prep
  

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🛒 Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  
• ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
  
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  
• ¼ cup red bell pepper, diced
  
• ¼ cup green bell pepper, diced
  
• ¼ cup jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
  
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any high smoke point oil)
  

Seasonings & Flavor:

• 1–2 teaspoons chicken bouillon (or 1 cube)
  
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
  

Optional Boosters:

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
  
• ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked for a deeper flavor)
  

Cooking Liquid:

• 2 cups water (or low-sodium broth for more depth)
  

📌 Quick Tip: Need groceries fast? Get everything via [Amazon Fresh] (insert link).

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🔥 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Ingredients:

• Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove bitterness.
  
• Dice the onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and jalapeño.
  
• Mince garlic and set aside.
  

2️⃣ Sauté the Spices:

• Heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
  
• Add chicken bouillon, salt, black pepper, and any optional spices.
  
• Stir for 1 minute to bloom the flavors.
  

3️⃣ Cook the Vegetables:

• Add diced onion, peppers, and jalapeño.
  
• Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.
  

4️⃣ Toast the Quinoa:

• Add rinsed quinoa to the pan and stir to coat.
  
• Toast for 4–5 minutes for a nutty, rich base.
  

5️⃣ Add Liquid & Simmer:

• Pour in water or broth.
  
• Bring to a boil, taste the broth, and adjust seasoning if needed.
  

6️⃣ Cook:

• Cover and simmer on low heat for 20–25 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
  

7️⃣ Fluff & Serve:

• Let the quinoa sit covered for 5 minutes off-heat.
  
• Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
  

✨ Serve warm and soak in all that savory, spicy goodness!

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💡 Pro Tips & Variations

• Boost Flavor: Always use broth over water when you can.
  
• Adjust the Heat: More jalapeño or red pepper flakes for spicy lovers; less if you prefer milder.
  
• Make It a Full Meal: Stir in grilled chicken, black beans, or sautéed shrimp.
  
• Summer Salad Version: Chill the quinoa and toss with corn, avocado, and fresh lime for a refreshing twist.
  
• Add Crunch: Top with roasted pumpkin seeds or chopped almonds for a savory, crunchy finish.
  

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📊 Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~220 kcal
  
• Protein: ~6g
  
• Carbs: ~30g
  
• Fat: ~7g
  
• Fiber: ~4g
  

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💭 Final Thoughts

This Spicy Quinoa Pilaf with Peppers & Onions brings big flavor with every bite — satisfying, vibrant, and endlessly versatile. Whether meal-prepping for the week or throwing together a colorful dinner, it’s the kind of dish you’ll crave again and again.

💬 How do you like your quinoa — spicy, sweet, or loaded with veggies? Drop your favorite combos in the comments below!
📌 Want more bold, healthy recipes? Check out my [meal-prep ideas here!] 🚀

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