Description
This simple method produces perfectly fluffy quinoa with light, tender grains every time. It’s a quick, nutritious base for grain bowls, salads, or a healthy side dish.
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Place the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold running water for about 30 seconds to remove the natural bitter coating.
- Add the rinsed quinoa, water, and salt to a medium saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water has been fully absorbed.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the quinoa sit covered for about 5 minutes so the grains finish steaming.
- Fluff the quinoa gently with a fork to separate the grains. Drizzle olive oil over the top if desired before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, cook the quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water.
Stir in fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or basil after cooking for added freshness.
Mix with roasted vegetables, chickpeas, or grilled tofu to create a filling grain bowl.
Add lemon juice, garlic, or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat with a small splash of water in the microwave for 30–60 seconds to keep it fluffy.
Cooked quinoa can also be frozen in portions for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 222 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
