Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta Quinoa Recipe

Alright, fellow food adventurers, let me take you on a delicious journey where fresh meets fabulous in this Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta Quinoa Salad. It’s like summer decided to throw a party in a bowl, and you’re invited!

My Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta Quinoa marries the vibrant flavors of sweet heirloom cherry tomatoes and fresh basil with the nutty taste of quinoa. I adore the way quinoa’s texture complements the freshness of red onion, the kick of garlic, and the not-so-sweetness of balsamic vinegar.

The result is a nutritious, totally delicious dish that’s rich in beautiful, healthful things like fiber and protein.

Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta Quinoa Recipe Ingredients

• Quinoa: A high-protein grain, rich in fiber and minerals, providing a hearty base.
• Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and vibrant, they add sweetness and acidity.
• Red Onion: Offers a sharp, spicy kick and adds depth of flavor.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats that enhance the dish’s richness.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Provides a tangy sweetness, balancing the other flavors.
• Garlic: Aromatic and savory, it lends complexity to the mix.
• Fresh Basil: A fragrant herb that imparts a fresh, peppery taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish to the bruschetta.

Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta Quinoa Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1 pint heirloom cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chiffonade
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make this Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta Quinoa Recipe

1. A medium saucepan holds the rinsed quinoa and water. The water should be boiling before the quinoa is added. When the quinoa is combined with the boiling water, the saucepan should be covered and moved to a low burner, where it will simmer for 15 minutes. During this time, the quinoa will absorb the water and fluff up.

2. As you cook the quinoa, take the time to prep the beautiful cherry tomatoes. Slice each one into quarters and toss them directly into a large mixing bowl. You want to use a bowl that will give the tomatoes some room to mingle (and for you to mix them in). So, pick a bowl that sort of doubles as a stage for the tomatoes and let them have their moment. They are very tasty.

3. Include the very finely chopped red onion in the bowl with the tomatoes.

4. In a tiny dish, mix up the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.

5. Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette on the tomato and red onion mix. Toss gently to ensure the tomatoes and red onions are well dressed.

6. After the quinoa has been prepared and has cooled slightly, put it in the bowl with the tomato mixture. Combine the two mixtures gently.

7. Include the fresh basil chiffonade in the quinoa mixture and toss gently to mix.

8. Top the quinoa mixture with the grated Parmesan cheese and then gently work it into the dish.

9. Adjust seasoning to taste, using more salt or pepper if you like.

10. Serve the Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta Quinoa at room temperature or slightly chilled, with the garnish of your choice (more fresh basil, perhaps?). Enjoy!

Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta Quinoa Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Medium saucepan with lid
2. Large mixing bowl
3. Small dish
4. Cutting board
5. Chef’s knife
6. Measuring cups
7. Measuring spoons
8. Wooden spoon or spatula
9. Garlic press (optional for mincing garlic)
10. Serving plate or bowl

FAQ

• Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?Of course, you can replace quinoa with farro, couscous, or rice if you’re looking for something with a different texture or taste. But quinoa’s nutty flavor, fluffy yet slightly crunchy texture, and inherent versatility make it an ingredient worth celebrating.
• How can I make the dish vegan?Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
• What is the best way to chiffonade basil?Pile the basil leaves; roll them tightly; then slice them very thinly with a sharp knife.
• How should I store leftovers?Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?You can prepare the quinoa and vegetables ahead of time, but wait until you’re ready to serve to mix them together to maintain that just-cooked quality.
• What type of tomatoes should I use?Recommended for their variety of colors and flavors, heirloom cherry tomatoes are not the only option; any ripe cherry tomatoes will do.
• How can I add more protein to the dish?Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can increase protein in your meal.

Heirloom Tomato Bruschetta Quinoa Recipe Substitutions and Variations

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

You can use couscous or bulgur wheat for a completely different texture.
1 pint quart heirloom cherry tomatoes, quartered
Replace with grape tomatoes or standard cherry tomatoes.
1/4 cup red onion, chopped fine
Replace with shallots or green onions for a milder flavor.
1 tablespoon oil olive
Use avocado oil or sunflower oil as substitutes.
1/4 cup fresh basil, cut into thin strips
Replace with fresh parsley or mint if you want to achieve a different herbaceous note.

Pro Tips

1. Toasting the Quinoa Before rinsing, consider lightly toasting the quinoa in a dry pan for a few minutes over medium heat until it becomes fragrant. This adds a nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

2. Balsamic Reduction For added depth in flavor, you can reduce the balsamic vinegar slightly before mixing it with the olive oil and garlic. Simply simmer the vinegar on low heat until it thickens a bit. This will enhance the dressing’s richness.

3. Herb Infusion Add a sprig of fresh basil to the saucepan when cooking the quinoa. Remove it before combining the quinoa with other ingredients to impart a subtle basil flavor throughout the quinoa.

4. Parmesan Variations Instead of mixing all the Parmesan cheese into the dish, reserve a portion to sprinkle on top just before serving. This maintains a variety of textures and intensifies the cheese’s flavor.

5. Tomato Juices After quartering the cherry tomatoes, lightly sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for a few minutes. This draws out some of their juices, which can be added to the vinaigrette for extra flavor depth.