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To create the perfect Chilled Tomato Quinoa Towers, it’s important to understand the ingredients that contribute to both the flavor and health benefits of this recipe. Each component plays a vital role, enhancing the overall experience of this delightful dish.

Chilled Tomato Quinoa Towers

Discover a spectacular dish perfect for summer with Chilled Tomato Quinoa Towers. This vibrant recipe combines fluffy quinoa with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, making it both a feast for the eyes and a nutritious choice. Packed with protein and fiber, quinoa serves as an excellent base, while a zesty lemon dressing and aromatic basil enhance the flavors. Ideal for warm-weather gatherings, these towers are sure to impress your guests!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Juice of 1 lemon

3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 avocado, sliced (for garnish)

Balsamic glaze (for drizzling, optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork.

    Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and chopped basil.

      Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the mixed vegetables and toss gently to combine.

        Combine Quinoa and Vegetables: Once the quinoa has cooled to room temperature, add it to the vegetable mixture. Gently fold everything together until well combined.

          Assemble the Towers: To create the towers, use a 3-inch round ring mold (or any round cookie cutter) placed on a serving plate. Spoon a layer of the quinoa mixture into the mold, pressing down slightly for stability. Follow with a layer of the vegetable mixture. Repeat this process to create layers, stopping once you reach the top of the mold.

            Chill: Carefully lift the mold off the assembled tower. Repeat with remaining quinoa and vegetable mixture until all are assembled. Place the towers in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill.

              Serve: Once chilled, garnish each tower with a slice of avocado on top. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing summer dish!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4