Easy Split Pea and Quinoa Dinner
Alright, gather ’round, folks, because today we’re tackling something that sounds suspiciously healthy, but I promise it’s actually delicious. I’m talking about my go-to Easy Split Pea and Quinoa Dinner – yes, you read that right. Split peas *and* quinoa, together in one glorious pot. Before you scroll past thinking I’ve lost my mind and replaced my coffee with kale smoothies, hear me out. This dish is the culinary equivalent of that comfy sweater you wear three days in a row: unexpectedly comforting, deceptively simple, and nobody’s judging you (or at least, they shouldn’t be). It’s packed with flavor, ridiculously easy, and it gives you that smug feeling of having eaten something “good for you” without actually having to *suffer*. So, if your kitchen usually looks like a bomb went off and your patience for complicated recipes is thinner than my attempts at making puff pastry from scratch, this one’s for you.
My husband, bless his heart, once mistook the pot of this simmering on the stove for “that weird green mush” I make when I’m “on a health kick.” He looked at it with the same suspicion he reserves for unsolicited emails from unknown senders. Fast forward twenty minutes, and he’s not just asking for a second helping, he’s actively trying to figure out if I “hid bacon in it” (spoiler: I didn’t, but maybe next time?). The kids, predictably, were also wary. My youngest declared it “swamp food.” But then, I sprinkled a little cheese on top of theirs, told them it was a magic potion, and suddenly, the “swamp food” disappeared faster than my motivation to do laundry on a Saturday. Sometimes, you just gotta lean into the chaos and hope for the best, right?
Why You’ll Love This Easy Split Pea and Quinoa Dinner
- It’s one of those rare dishes that actually makes you feel good about yourself without tasting like regret. We call that a win-win in my house.
- Minimal dishes, people! Seriously, if you can cook in one pot, you’re basically a kitchen ninja in my book. And if you only have one pot, you’re just living the dream.
- It’s surprisingly satisfying. You know how some “healthy” meals leave you wanting a whole pizza an hour later? Not this one. This actually sticks to your ribs.
- It’s a fantastic way to trick your family (and yourself) into eating more veggies and legumes. Don’t worry, they’ll thank you later. Or at least, they won’t complain *as much*.
- Perfect for meal prep, because who has time to cook every single night? Not me, I’m usually wrestling a toddler or trying to find where I left my keys.
Time-Saving Hacks
- Pre-chopped onions and carrots from the grocery store are your best friends. Yes, they cost more, but your sanity is priceless.
- Use a pressure cooker if you have one. It basically turns this into a “set it and forget it” situation, which is my kind of cooking.
- Don’t bother rinsing the quinoa *that* thoroughly. A quick swish under the tap is usually fine. We’re not scientists here, we’re just trying to eat.
- “Clean as you go” means pushing all the used utensils to one side of the counter and promising to deal with them later. It still counts as a plan!
- If you don’t have fresh garlic, use the pre-minced stuff in the jar. Your Italian ancestors might disown you, but your taste buds will still be happy.
Serving Ideas
- Serve it with a giant hunk of crusty bread because scooping up every last bit of this goodness is essential. Plus, bread.
- A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt on top is highly encouraged. It adds a little tangy creaminess that just makes everything better.
- A side salad if you’re feeling fancy (or guilty about that second helping of bread). Keep it simple, like just some greens with a vinaigrette.
- Honestly, just eat it straight out of the pot with a big spoon while standing over the sink. No judgment here, it’s often the best way.
- Pair it with a glass of whatever beverage helps you unwind after a long day. If the kids drove you nuts, might I suggest something with a cork?
What to Serve It With
Tips & Mistakes
Storage Tips
Store it in the fridge… if there’s any left. Cold midnight leftovers? Sometimes better than fresh.
Variations and Substitutions
Swap whatever you want—sugar ↔ honey, soy sauce ↔ tamari, or skip steps and call it “deconstructed.” It still counts.
MORE OF OUR FAVORITE…
Frequently Asked Questions
Easy Split Pea and Quinoa Dinner
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cup split peas
- 0.75 cup quinoa
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and black pepper; cook for another minute.
- Combine split peas, quinoa, diced carrots, and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until peas are tender.
- Stir in the chopped spinach just before serving.
Notes
Featured Comments
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“Super easy and turned out amazing! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“New favorite here — turned out amazing. satisfying was spot on.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and family favorite results. Perfect for busy nights.”
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“Super easy and will make again! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“Super easy and absolutely loved! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“New favorite here — family favorite. healthy swap was spot on.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and turned out amazing results. Perfect for busy nights.”
