Exquisite Quinoa and Prawns with Spicy Pepper Sauce

Quinoa, known for its nutrient-rich profile, pairs perfectly with succulent prawns to create a dish that’s both healthy and indulgent. The spicy pepper sauce adds a kick that elevates this simple meal to an exquisite dining experience.

Ingredients:

Main Dish:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 lb large prawns, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Spicy Pepper Sauce:
– 1 red bell pepper, roasted and peeled
– 1 small red chili, deseeded
– 1 garlic clove
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

Preparing the Quinoa:
1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
3. Add the quinoa, lower the heat, and simmer covered for about 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Cooking the Prawns:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the prawns to the skillet and season with smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook the prawns for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque.

Making the Spicy Pepper Sauce:
1. Place the roasted red bell pepper, red chili, garlic, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar in a blender or food processor.
2. Blend until smooth and season with salt to taste.

Assembling the Dish:
1. Serve the quinoa on a plate, placing the cooked prawns on top.
2. Drizzle the spicy pepper sauce over the quinoa and prawns.
3. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

Enjoy your Exquisite Quinoa and Prawns with Spicy Pepper Sauce as a unique and delightful meal that brings together the perfect blend of flavors and textures!