Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa

Name: Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa as it combines simple ingredients into a dish that's bursting with flavor. The sweet, caramelized tomatoes paired with fragrant basil elevate this wholesome grain into a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I often enjoy it as a nutritious side or a light lunch topped with feta cheese. The best part? It's ready in under 30 minutes, making it an easy option for when I'm short on time but still want something delicious!

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:46:11.757Z

When I first made Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa, I was surprised at how much flavor could be packed into such a simple dish. The roasting process amplifies the sweetness of the tomatoes, and when mixed with fresh basil, it transforms the quinoa into something special. I particularly recommend letting the tomatoes roast until they’re just bursting; it’s that sweet burst that makes each bite a joy.

One tip I've learned is to season the quinoa right after cooking it. Adding a pinch of salt and a splash of olive oil makes a world of difference in bringing out the natural nuttiness of the grains, which balances perfectly with the roasted tomatoes. It’s a dish I keep coming back to!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with sweet roasted flavors
Fresh basil enhances the aroma
Healthy and satisfying meal option

      

Perfecting the Roasted Tomatoes

Roasting cherry tomatoes not only enhances their natural sweetness but also brings out their rich, complex flavors. For best results, choose tomatoes that are vibrant and firm. If you notice any that are overripe or soft, set those aside as they may not roast well. Aim for a golden hue on the edges of each tomato when they are done, which typically takes around 20 minutes. Don't hesitate to stir them halfway through to ensure they caramelize evenly.

The olive oil plays an essential role in the roasting process, helping to create that lovely golden brown color while contributing healthy fats. For an additional flavor kick, you can introduce minced garlic or balsamic vinegar alongside the tomatoes. Just be cautious with the vinegar, as too much can overpower the sweetness of the tomatoes. A splash of vinegar after roasting also brings a bright finishing touch.

Mastering Quinoa Cooking

Quinoa is a versatile grain packed with protein and fiber. When cooking it, a common mistake is to skip rinsing, which can result in a bitter taste due to saponins on the grain’s surface. Using vegetable broth instead of water not only enhances flavor but also helps the quinoa absorb more depth. Keep an eye on it as it simmers; the grains are done when they burst open and look fluffy, which takes about 15 minutes.

Once cooked, fluffing quinoa with a fork is crucial as it separates the grains, preventing a gummy texture. I often add a splash of olive oil to enhance the richness and keep the grains separated further. If you're making this ahead of time, store the quinoa in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will keep for up to five days. This makes it a great meal prep option.

Ingredients

For the Quinoa

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Roasted Tomatoes

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer and roast for about 20 minutes, or until they are softened and start to caramelize.

Cook the Quinoa

While the tomatoes are roasting, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

Combine and Serve

Once both the quinoa and tomatoes are done, fluff the quinoa with a fork and drizzle in the olive oil. Gently fold in the roasted tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some crumbled feta cheese or a sprinkle of pine nuts before serving. This will enhance the dish's creaminess and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins. Grilled chicken or shrimp can complement the lightness of this dish, while a scoop of hummus adds a creamy texture for a vegetarian twist. If you want to elevate it further, serve it alongside a simple green salad or packed into lettuce wraps for a refreshing bite.

For an even more filling meal, consider adding some sautéed spinach or kale right before serving. Their slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Drizzling a little balsamic reduction over the top just before serving can also enhance the dish with acidity and additional sweetness.

Making it Your Own

Feel free to customize this recipe according to your taste preferences or what's in season. For instance, you can replace cherry tomatoes with diced bell peppers or zucchini, adjusting the roasting time slightly. You can also experiment with different herbs; thyme or rosemary would provide a delightful variation if you don't have basil on hand.

If you're gluten-sensitive, quinoa is a fantastic choice as it’s naturally gluten-free. However, if you're looking for a lower-carb alternative, try substituting quinoa with cauliflower rice or even a mix of both. This can alter the texture significantly, making for a hearty yet light dish that's equally satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of tomatoes?

Absolutely! You can use any type of tomatoes that you prefer, such as heirlooms or Roma, but adjust the roasting time if they are larger.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan, simply ensure that the vegetable broth used is plant-based.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can make the quinoa and roasted tomatoes ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine before serving.

→ How can I adjust the serving size?

You can easily scale this recipe up or down by adjusting the amount of quinoa and tomatoes based on how many servings you need.