Quinoa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quinoa is easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and full of nutritional value. It cooks in under 20 minutes and can be made in batches for use throughout the week. Whether you’re aiming for a healthy side dish or a base for your favorite toppings, this quinoa recipe provides a simple and flavorful way to enjoy this superfood.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Quinoa
• Water or vegetable broth
• Salt
• Olive oil or butter (optional, for flavor)
• Garlic or herbs (optional, for added aroma)

Directions

1. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh strainer to remove its natural bitterness.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or broth (typically 2 parts liquid to 1 part quinoa).
3. Add a pinch of salt and olive oil or butter if desired.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
7. Fluff with a fork before serving. You can add chopped herbs, garlic, or lemon juice for extra flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Rest time: 5 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for richer flavor.
• Stir in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill.
• Add lemon juice and zest for a citrusy boost.
• Mix in cooked vegetables, beans, or nuts for a complete meal.
• Try tri-color quinoa for a more colorful presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Cooked quinoa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months.
To reheat, microwave or warm on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore its fluffy texture.

FAQs

Do I need to rinse quinoa before cooking?

Yes, rinsing quinoa removes saponins, which can give it a bitter taste.

What is the ratio of water to quinoa?

The general ratio is 2 parts water to 1 part quinoa.

Can I cook quinoa in broth?

Absolutely. Using vegetable or chicken broth adds flavor and richness.

How do I know when quinoa is done?

Quinoa is done when all the liquid is absorbed and the grains look slightly translucent with a visible spiral germ.

Is quinoa gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free and safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I use a rice cooker to cook quinoa?

Yes, quinoa cooks well in a rice cooker using the same 2:1 liquid-to-quinoa ratio.

What does quinoa taste like?

Quinoa has a mild, slightly nutty flavor and a fluffy, slightly chewy texture.

Is quinoa a grain or a seed?

Technically, quinoa is a seed, but it is often classified and cooked like a whole grain.

Can I eat quinoa cold?

Yes, cooked quinoa can be eaten cold in salads or as a chilled side dish.

How do I add more flavor to plain quinoa?

Cook it in broth, add herbs, garlic, lemon juice, or mix it with roasted vegetables and spices.

Conclusion

Quinoa is a powerhouse ingredient that’s quick to cook, easy to flavor, and incredibly adaptable. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or preparing a last-minute side dish, this recipe will give you perfectly fluffy quinoa every time. Its health benefits and culinary flexibility make it a must-have in your kitchen.

Quinoa

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This easy quinoa recipe yields light, fluffy grains with a slightly nutty flavor. Perfect as a healthy side dish or a base for salads, bowls, and more. Naturally gluten-free and rich in protein.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: International
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1. 1 cup quinoa
2. 2 cups water or vegetable broth
3. 1/4 teaspoon salt
4. 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional)
5. 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
6. 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (optional)

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Instructions

Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh strainer to remove bitterness.

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and water or broth using a 2:1 liquid-to-quinoa ratio.
2. Add salt and olive oil or butter if using. Stir in garlic for extra aroma, if desired.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
6. Fluff with a fork before serving. Add herbs or lemon juice for added flavor if desired.

Notes

1. Use broth instead of water for a richer taste.
2. Letting quinoa rest after cooking ensures fluffier texture.
3. Enhance flavor with garlic, herbs, or lemon juice.
4. Tri-color quinoa adds visual appeal and slight texture variety.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup cooked
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg