Description
Discover the vibrant flavors of Healthy Thai Coconut Quinoa Bowls, a nutritious and satisfying meal featuring fluffy coconut-infused quinoa, vibrant sautéed vegetables, and a creamy homemade Thai peanut sauce. Perfect for meal prep or a wholesome dinner, this recipe combines wholesome ingredients with bold Thai-inspired flavors for a delicious and balanced bowl.
Ingredients
Quinoa and Vegetables
- 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
- 1 cup canned light coconut milk
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup edamame (steamed and shelled)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Thai Peanut Sauce
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin)
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa, coconut milk, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Thai Peanut Sauce: While the quinoa cooks, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, fresh ginger, and sriracha (if using) in a small bowl. Add warm water a tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shredded cabbage, carrots, and thinly sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are slightly softened yet still vibrant.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked coconut quinoa evenly into serving bowls. Top with the sautéed vegetables, steamed edamame, chopped cilantro, green onions, peanuts, and sesame seeds.
- Serve: Drizzle the prepared Thai peanut sauce generously over the bowls. Serve warm or at room temperature for a flavorful and nourishing meal.
Notes
- Customize the bowls with tofu, chicken, or shrimp for extra protein.
- This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep; it tastes delicious both warm and cold.
- Brown rice can be used instead of quinoa if preferred.
