Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa

Name: Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt, to taste; 2 cups cherry tomatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon (optional); Feta cheese for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love the burst of flavors in this Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa! Every bite combines the sweet, caramelized notes of roasted tomatoes with the fresh, aromatic touch of basil. It’s a delightful dish that I often prepare as a healthy side or sometimes even as a light main course. The quinoa adds a wonderful texture and nutty undertone that complements the other ingredients beautifully. It’s so easy to make, and I feel great knowing it’s packed with nutrients. Trust me; you’ll want to add this to your weekly meal rotation!

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:31:24.935Z

When I first made Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa for a dinner party last summer, it completely stole the show! My guests couldn’t stop raving about the fresh flavors and how simple it was to prepare. I began roasting different types of tomatoes, and I've found that cherry tomatoes caramelize especially beautifully. The combination of flavors was so addictive that I knew I had to share this recipe with everyone.

To elevate the dish, I often squeeze a little lemon juice just before serving. It really enhances the overall brightness and brings the dish to life! Plus, the addition of feta cheese could make it even creamier if you desire. This dish not only looks stunning but is also incredibly satisfying!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant flavors of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil
Nutritious quinoa that's both filling and healthy
Versatile as a side dish or light main course
Simple ingredients with a stunning presentation

      

The Power of Quinoa

Quinoa is often celebrated not only for its nutty flavor but also for its impressive nutritional profile. As a complete protein, it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and anyone looking to boost their protein intake. Additionally, quinoa is gluten-free, which means those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy it without worry. I love the slightly chewy texture it brings, which contrasts beautifully with the tender, roasted tomatoes.

When cooking quinoa, it's crucial to rinse it thoroughly before cooking. This process removes saponins, which can impart a bitter taste. I usually place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water and rub it gently with my fingers. This simple step ensures the final dish showcases the true flavor of the quinoa without any undesirable bitterness. If you have leftovers, cooked quinoa can be refrigerated for up to five days, making this dish even more convenient.

Roasting Techniques for Tomatoes

Roasting tomatoes is a transformative process that enhances their natural sweetness. When you roast them at a high temperature, like 400°F (200°C), the sugars caramelize, resulting in a rich, complex flavor. Keep an eye on the tomatoes; you want them to be soft and bursting, not dried out. A good indicator of doneness is when they are wrinkled and have released some of their juices, darkening and glistening in the pan.

If you want to experiment with flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar or a dash of Italian seasoning before roasting. This adds an extra layer of depth that complements the basil beautifully. Alternatively, if cherry tomatoes are out of season, you can use grape tomatoes or even larger varieties cut into chunks; just adjust the roasting time to ensure they cook evenly.

Serving and Storing

This Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa is incredibly versatile. You can serve it warm as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it as a light main course with a simple salad. To enhance your meal, try adding some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and additional flavor. If you want to make it heartier, consider mixing in some cooked chickpeas for an added protein punch.

In terms of storage, this dish can last up to four days in the refrigerator, but the flavors will meld beautifully over time. If you find any leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent drying out. For longer storage, frozen portions can keep for up to three months, making it an ideal option for meal prep.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delightful dish:

For the Quinoa

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt, to taste

For the Roasted Tomatoes

2 cups cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cloves garlic, minced

To Finish

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Feta cheese for garnish (optional)

Make sure to prep everything before you start cooking for a smooth experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa:

Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Roast for about 25 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and caramelized.

Cook the Quinoa

While the tomatoes are roasting, bring vegetable broth or water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the rinsed quinoa, a tablespoon of olive oil, and salt. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid.

Combine the Ingredients

Once both the quinoa and tomatoes are ready, fluff the quinoa with a fork and add the roasted tomatoes along with the juices from the baking dish. Stir in the chopped basil and lemon juice if using. Mix everything well and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with crumbled feta cheese if desired, and enjoy your delightful dish!

Enjoy your Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa warm or let it cool and serve as a salad!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or thyme for added flavor. This dish is also excellent at room temperature, making it ideal for potlucks and picnics.

Ingredient Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. If you're out of cherry tomatoes, you can easily substitute them with any small tomato variety or even sun-dried tomatoes for a concentrated flavor. Just keep in mind that sun-dried tomatoes will require less roasting time. Additionally, if you're looking to add a bit of spice, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the roasting process for a gentle kick.

If you want to make this dish vegan or dairy-free, simply skip the feta cheese garnish or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative for that creamy touch. Fresh herbs can also be interchanged; for example, parsley or cilantro would change the flavor profile while still keeping the dish refreshing.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

Want to take your Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa to the next level? Experiment with adding caramelized onions; they provide a sweet and savory depth. Simply sauté chopped onions in olive oil until golden brown and then mix them into the quinoa along with the tomatoes. This addition amplifies the richness of the dish and makes it even more satisfying.

Moreover, consider making a lemon-basil vinaigrette to drizzle atop your dish before serving. Just combine fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and some chopped basil for a zesty finish that brightens the flavors beautifully. This dressing can also be served on the side if you’re preparing this dish for a gathering, allowing guests to customize their serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of quinoa?

Yes! You can use red or black quinoa, but the cooking times may slightly vary.

→ How long does this dish keep in the fridge?

It can last 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas pair beautifully with quinoa and can increase the protein content.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Roasted Tomato Basil Quinoa is completely vegan if you omit the cheese.