Quinoa and Pepper Pilaf: a #BlockPartyHero

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All opinions are mine alone. #BlockPartyHero #CollectiveBias

Do you have a go-to recipe or dish that you take to Summer get-togethers in the neighborhood or family barbecues? For a long time, my go-to was broccoli salad and it's still on the list, but I really wanted to mix it up this summer, so I'm trying some new dishes, like this QUINOA AND PEPPER PILAF from Swanson. It might just be a new staple for summer get togethers. It's bright with just enough flavor that it can be a side dish paired with almost anything or it could also be the base with grilled chicken or steak on top.

What You'll Need

• 1 tablespoon olive oil 
• 1  shallot, minced 
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (I used pre-minced - check the jar for what equals one clove)
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup) 
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup) 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed 
• Tip: Try truRoots Quinoa
• 2 cups Swanson® Chicken Broth 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 

How to Make It

1. Heat the oil in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-high heat.  
2. Add the shallot and garlic and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.  
3. Add the peppers and quinoa and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the broth and heat to a boil.  
5. Reduce the heat to low.  
6. Cover and cook for 20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed.  
7. Stir in the parsley. 
8. ENJOY Warm, Room Temperature or as a Cold Salad after Refrigerating 

This dish really is the hero of the party, but here are a few other tips to make your own Summer Block Party great! 

• Fresh Fruit is a MUST for Summer! It satisfies that sweet tooth without having to have a lot of heavy desserts and it's perfect for the kiddos. Try sliced pineapple on a stick!

• Don't forget to have an actual dessert too! Like a classic Apple Pie. Just pick one up at Sam's Club and you'll be good to go. DELISH!

• Add in a snack like chips and salsa. This is something guests can snack on throughout the party and don't necessarily have to fix a plate for. 

• Search Pinterest for cute free printable to add a little life to your party and it can also serve as an activity if mingling isn't enough! I found these great popsicle printable and summer bucket list that can really make an impact and finding a printable you love will help you create a color scheme for your tablescape! 

• Find a one-stop shop to make it easier on yourself! I found everything I needed for a Summer Block Party at Sam's Club.

Including Pace Organic Salsa and  Swanson® Chicken Broth

You can get a 6 Pack of Swanson's Chicken Broth for under $10 and it should last you the summer for these great recipes plus it's a great add in for marinades and crockpot cooking! 

I also picked up these fresh ingredients at Sam's Club, the peppers, the pineapple and the truRoots Quinoa can also be found at Sam's Club and truly that bag has already gone a long way! Find out where you can be a part of Sam's Club Summer Block Party here! 

What are you cooking with this summer? Do you have any great Swanson recipes to share?