Citrus-Infused Quinoa with Spiced Chickpeas

A delightful blend of citrusy quinoa and spiced chickpeas, perfect for a refreshing meal with a kick of flavor.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. Combine quinoa and water in a small pot, bringing to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the water is fully absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy, about 15 minutes. Let it sit off the heat with the lid on for another 5 minutes to steam and ensure all moisture is absorbed.
2. 2.
   While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chickpeas to the skillet, cooking them until they become golden and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
3. 3.
   Once both the quinoa and chickpeas are ready, combine them in a mixing bowl. Drizzle the lemon juice over the mixture, which will add a refreshing citrus flavor and help balance the earthy notes of the quinoa and the spiciness of the chickpeas. Toss gently to ensure everything is well coated.
4. 4.
   For added flavor integration, allow the combined mixture to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time permits the lemon juice to impart its full essence into the dish.
5. 5.
   If the mixture seems dry, feel free to drizzle a little more olive oil or an extra squeeze of lemon juice before enjoying. For a spicier kick, consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite chili flakes.