Looking for delicious and versatile recipes that are also healthy and kid-friendly? Look no further than quinoa! This powerhouse grain is loaded with protein, fiber, and antioxidants, and is known to lower cholesterol and blood sugar. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. From salads to pancakes, quinoa can be used in a variety of dishes that are sure to please. Check out these sensational quinoa recipes and get cooking today!
1. Quinoa Salad with Orange, Cranberry and Mint
Looking for a light and refreshing dish to bring to your next potluck or summer BBQ? Look no further than this quinoa salad! Packed with flavor, the combination of orange, cranberry, and mint complement each other beautifully. The addition of feta adds a touch of salty creaminess. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be served as a main dish or side.
2. Fluffy Quinoa
Cooking quinoa can be tricky, as it tends to become too wet if not cooked properly. However, with this recipe, you can achieve perfectly fluffy quinoa every time. To achieve this, cook the quinoa in chicken broth, which adds a subtle flavor that complements any protein. If you prefer a vegan option, you can use vegetable broth instead. Here are the steps to follow for fluffy quinoa:
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking.
- In a pot, bring 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
- Add 1 cup of quinoa to the pot and stir.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Let the quinoa simmer for 15-20 minutes, until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork and serve.
By following these steps, you can enjoy perfectly fluffy quinoa every time, without any excess moisture.
3. Cherry Pistachio Quinoa Salad
You’ll love this delicious and healthy salad that’s perfect for a side dish or a hearty meal. The combination of sweet cherries, savory pistachios, and nutty quinoa is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Quinoa is loaded with vitamins and minerals, while pistachios are an excellent source of protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence. For an even heartier meal, add grilled chicken to the salad. Don’t forget to enter your email below to save this amazing recipe!
4. Black Bean and Quinoa Enchilada Bake
If you’re a fan of enchiladas but want a healthier option, this dish is perfect for you. Packed with protein and fiber from the black beans and quinoa, and loaded with nutrients and flavor from the vegetables, this enchilada bake is a delicious and nutritious meal. You can serve it with a side salad or corn chips to add some crunch. Plus, it makes great leftovers- simply reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick and easy meal the next day.
5. Pear Quinoa Salad with Arugula and Roasted Hazelnuts
Looking for a light and flavorful lunch option? This sensational salad is just what you need. Packed with sweet and buttery pears, nutty hazelnuts, and peppery arugula, it’s bursting with flavor and texture. Quinoa serves as a satisfying and filling base, while the roasted hazelnuts add a crunchy element. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a delicious meal.
6. Kale and Quinoa Salad
Looking for a healthy and tasty meal option? Look no further than this kale and quinoa salad recipe. This dish combines two superfoods, kale and quinoa, to give you a nutritious and delicious meal.
The nutty flavor of quinoa pairs perfectly with the slightly bitter taste of kale. And the zesty lemon dressing adds an extra kick of flavor.
For added protein, top your salad with grilled chicken or salmon. And for a bit of creaminess, crumble some feta cheese on top.
This salad is perfect for health-conscious foodies who want to get their greens in a tasty way. So, give it a try and supercharge your day!
7. Quinoa Cumin Crackers with Carrot Hummus
If you’re looking for a crispy and savory snack, try making quinoa and cumin crackers. These crackers are easy to make and pair perfectly with carrot hummus. Whip up a big batch at the beginning of the week for a healthy snack option. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of these crackers without any guilt!
8. Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Looking for a delicious and healthy meal that’s easy to make? Look no further than quinoa-stuffed peppers! While rice is a common filling for stuffed peppers, quinoa adds an extra boost of protein to keep you feeling full for longer. Mix in your favorite veggies and spices for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Plus, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
9. Spring Quinoa Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette
Looking for a protein-packed salad that can double as a filling meal? Look no further than this Spring Quinoa Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette. The light and refreshing vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the hearty quinoa, while the feta cheese adds a creamy and tangy touch. Plus, you can customize this salad to your liking by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, chopped fruit, or nuts. It’s the perfect dish for a healthy and satisfying lunch or dinner.
10. Balsamic Caprese Quinoa Salad
Looking for a healthy and delicious meal that won’t leave you feeling hungry? Look no further than this balsamic caprese quinoa salad.
Packed with protein-rich quinoa, fresh mozzarella, and zesty tomatoes, this salad is both flavorful and satisfying. The balsamic dressing adds a delicious depth of flavor, while the basil leaves provide a beautiful garnish.
And the best part? This salad can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
11. Blueberry Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
Start your day off right with this nutritious and delicious breakfast bowl. This bowl features quinoa, blueberries, and almond milk, providing an outstanding balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The blueberries add a pop of sweetness, while the walnuts and pecans provide a satisfying crunch. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Healthy Fats | 10g |
| Fiber | 8g |
This breakfast bowl is also high in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Plus, it’s gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Give this Blueberry Quinoa Breakfast Bowl a try and start your day off on the right foot!
12. Quinoa Avocado Salad
Looking for a light and healthy side dish to complement your next steak dinner? Try this delicious Quinoa Avocado Salad! Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, the combination of quinoa and avocado offers a nutritious and flavorful base. Add some color and taste with grape tomatoes and red onions. For an extra kick, sprinkle some crumbled feta and corn on top.
13. BLT Quinoa Salad
Looking for a unique twist on the classic sandwich? Try this delicious BLT quinoa salad for a light lunch or special side dish. With just a few simple ingredients, this easy-to-make salad is perfect for those looking for a break from the ordinary. It’s filling, but won’t weigh you down, making it the perfect option for a mid-day meal.
14. Quinoa Spring Rolls with Cashew Dipping Sauce
These fresh quinoa rolls are a beautiful sight with colorful ingredients visible through the wrapper. The recipe calls for a simple mix of chopped cucumber, red pepper, carrots, cilantro, and mint, but you can easily switch up the flavors. The real star of the dish is the nutty, smooth, zippy, and delicious cashew dipping sauce that you won’t want to miss.
15. Quinoa Pancakes
Why settle for plain pancakes when you can have a healthier and more nutritious option? Quinoa pancakes are an easy and delicious way to start your day. Top them with fresh fruit and a drizzle of maple syrup for a tasty breakfast. Here are some benefits of quinoa pancakes:
- High in protein and fiber
- Gluten-free
- Low glycemic index
- Rich in vitamins and minerals
Try this recipe for quinoa pancakes:
| Ingredients |
|---|
| 1 cup cooked quinoa |
| 1 cup all-purpose flour |
| 2 tsp baking powder |
| 1/2 tsp salt |
| 2 tbsp honey |
| 1 cup milk |
| 2 eggs |
| 1 tsp vanilla extract |
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then whisk in the quinoa, honey, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and spoon 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
- Serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
16. Crockpot Spicy Vegetarian Tortilla Soup with Quinoa
Looking for a hearty and nutritious meal that’s easy to make? Look no further than this Crockpot Spicy Vegetarian Tortilla Soup with Quinoa. Packed with protein and fiber-rich quinoa, as well as a variety of veggies, this soup is satisfying and delicious.
To make it, simply toss all the ingredients into your Crockpot and let it do the work for you. Top each bowl with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. This soup is perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal.
17. 5-Ingredient Garlic Butter Quinoa
Looking for a quick and easy meal? Try this minimalist garlic butter quinoa recipe that only requires five ingredients. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful and satisfying dish on the table. The savory note of garlic combined with the enhanced flavors of salt and vegetable broth make this dish a winner. The addition of butter adds a creamy and delicious touch, but you can easily swap it out for oil or a vegan alternative if needed. Check out the table below for a breakdown of the ingredients and measurements needed to make this dish.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Quinoa | 1 cup |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Vegetable broth | 2 cups |
To make this dish, simply cook the quinoa according to package instructions and set aside. In a separate pan, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the cooked quinoa to the pan and stir to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid. Serve hot and enjoy!
18. Roasted Mushrooms with Herbed Quinoa
Looking for a delicious and nutritious recipe that’s easy to make? Try roasted mushrooms with herbed quinoa. This dish is bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of earthy mushrooms, nutty quinoa, and fresh herbs. To take it up a notch, add some rosemary and thyme for a boost of fragrant notes. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 1 lb mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced mushrooms with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mushrooms on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
- While the mushrooms are roasting, rinse the quinoa and add it to a pot with the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
- Serve the roasted mushrooms over a bed of herbed quinoa.
Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish as a main course or a side dish. It’s perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
19. One-Pot Quinoa with Peas and Parmesan
Looking for a hearty and healthy dinner option that’s easy to make and clean up? Look no further than this one-pot quinoa and pea dish! With its delicious Parmesan cheese and protein-packed quinoa, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. And if you’re looking to make it vegan, simply swap out the cheese for nutritional yeast. So go ahead, give this tasty dish a try tonight!
20. Strawberry Quinoa Salad
Looking for a delicious and healthy salad option? Look no further than the scrumptious Strawberry Quinoa Salad. This salad is a perfect combination of sweet and juicy strawberries and fluffy quinoa that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Plus, it’s way more appetizing than a boring bowl of greens. And don’t forget about the delicious dressing that makes this salad terrific any time of day. Give it a try and you won’t be disappointed!
21. Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach and Quinoa Salad
Looking for a healthy and tasty salad to bring to your next summer picnic? Try this sun-dried tomato, spinach, and quinoa salad. The sun-dried tomatoes add a chewy texture and tangy flavor, while the spinach gives a fresh finish. Quinoa, a protein and nutrient-packed grain, makes this salad a true powerhouse. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and place in a medium saucepan with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Quinoa is a great source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. Spinach is loaded with antioxidants and vitamins, while sun-dried tomatoes provide a good dose of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
22. Healthy Chicken Parmesan Quinoa Casserole
If you’re looking for a healthy twist on a classic dish, try this chicken parmesan quinoa casserole. Instead of using breadcrumbs and hot oil, you’ll coat the chicken in Parmesan and garlic powder for a crispy crust. Cook it with quinoa and marinara for a flavorful and nutritious meal. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with garlic powder and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
- In a large baking dish, combine cooked quinoa, marinara sauce, and chicken.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious chicken parmesan quinoa casserole!
23. Curried Quinoa Salad
Looking for a way to take your quinoa from good to great? Try adding a curry twist! This colorful dish is packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with earthy, spicy, and sweet flavors. The addition of tahini adds a unique layer of taste that will leave you wanting more. Here are some key features of this delicious salad:
- Colorful and visually appealing
- Bursting with fresh ingredients
- Earthy, spicy, and sweet flavors
- Unique taste thanks to the addition of tahini
Give this curried quinoa salad a try and elevate your grain game to the next level!
24. Quinoa Meatballs
Looking for a healthy and protein-packed alternative to traditional meatballs? Look no further than quinoa meatballs! Made with quinoa and lentils, these meatballs are not only delicious but also a great source of nutrients. Plus, they can be paired with any sauce you desire. Serve them as an appetizer, add them to your favorite pasta dish, or stuff them into a sub with melted cheese. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, you won’t be disappointed with these tasty quinoa meatballs.
25. Mediterranean Salmon and Vegetable Quinoa
Looking for a healthy and delicious meal? Look no further than Mediterranean Salmon and Vegetable Quinoa! This recipe is loaded with nutrients and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The colorful and flavorful veggies add a texture contrast that will leave your taste buds satisfied. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for anyone who’s trying to eat healthily. Give it a try and see for yourself!
| Ingredients |
|---|
| 4 salmon fillets |
| 1 cup quinoa |
| 2 cups vegetable broth |
| 1/2 red onion, chopped |
| 1 red bell pepper, chopped |
| 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped |
| 1 zucchini, chopped |
| 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved |
| 2 cloves garlic, minced |
| 1/4 cup olive oil |
| 1/4 cup lemon juice |
| 1 tsp dried oregano |
| Salt and pepper, to taste |
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Rinse quinoa and place in a pot with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is fully cooked.
- While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the vegetables by chopping them into bite-sized pieces.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
- Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the marinade over the salmon fillets.
- Add the chopped vegetables to the baking sheet alongside the salmon fillets. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the vegetables.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until salmon is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Serve the salmon and vegetables over a bed of cooked quinoa. Enjoy!
26. Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad
If you’re looking for a salad that’s both nutritious and delicious, this roasted broccoli quinoa salad is a must-try. The roasted broccoli adds a crispy texture and a hint of sweetness to the dish, while the nutty flavor of the quinoa provides a perfect contrast. This salad is also loaded with kale, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas, making it a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. With fresh and flavorful ingredients, this salad is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
27. Apple Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad
This salad is a perfect blend of fall flavors. You will love the combination of sweet and crisp apples, nutty quinoa, and earthy sweet potatoes. The addition of chewy cranberries and tangy goat cheese adds a delightful contrast to every bite. Try this salad for a healthy and exciting meal.
28. Mexican Quinoa Salad
When you’re in the mood for some spicy Tex-Mex flavors, try this Mexican quinoa salad. Packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and seasonings, every bite is full of flavor and nutrients. For an extra burst of taste, add shredded cheese and crunchy tortilla strips on top.
29. Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash
If you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian main course, you should try this stuffed acorn squash recipe. The nutty flavor of the winter squash pairs perfectly with a savory filling of quinoa, onions, and cranberries. To make it, simply roast the squash halves for 15 minutes, then stuff them with the filling and bake for another 15 minutes. This dish is perfect for any autumn-inspired occasion and is sure to impress your guests.
30. Quinoa Rice Pudding Recipe
Looking for a tasty and healthy dessert option? Try this quinoa rice pudding recipe that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! The addition of mascarpone and maple syrup creates a creamy and sweet flavor. The quinoa adds a thick texture that’s similar to chia pudding, making it a healthier option. Serve it warm with a dollop of your favorite jam or cold with fresh fruit slices for a delicious treat.
| Ingredients |
|---|
| 1 cup cooked quinoa |
| 1 cup cooked rice |
| 1 cup milk |
| 1/4 cup mascarpone |
| 2 tablespoons maple syrup |
| 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract |
| Pinch of salt |
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked quinoa, rice, milk, mascarpone, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and thickened, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy this delicious and healthy dessert option!
31. Gluten-Free Flourless Chocolate Quinoa Cake
Yes, you read that right. This chocolate cake is gluten-free and made with quinoa. To make it, cook the quinoa until it’s tender, then blend it with cake staples until smooth. Bake it and voila! You’ll have an incredibly rich and decadent chocolate cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Quinoa
- Eggs
- Sugar
- Cocoa powder
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Butter
Follow the recipe carefully and you’ll have a cake that’s sure to impress. It’s perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone looking for a healthier dessert option.
32. High Protein Healthy Egg Scramble with Quinoa
Looking for a healthy and satisfying breakfast option? Try this high protein egg scramble with quinoa! Packed with protein and fiber from the quinoa and eggs, this dish will keep you feeling full and energized throughout the morning. Add some spinach for an extra boost of nutrients and bacon (real or vegan) for added flavor. Give this delicious and easy breakfast recipe a try and start your day off right!
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup cooked quinoa | In a non-stick skillet, heat up the cooked quinoa over medium heat. |
| 2 eggs | In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and pour them into the skillet with the quinoa. |
| Handful of spinach | Add a handful of spinach to the skillet and scramble everything together until the eggs are cooked through. |
| Salt and pepper to taste | Season with salt and pepper to taste. |
| Optional: bacon (real or vegan) | Add cooked bacon (real or vegan) for added flavor. |
33. Double Chocolate Quinoa Brownies
Looking for a decadent treat that won’t leave you feeling guilty? Look no further than these Double Chocolate Quinoa Brownies! Packed with wholesome ingredients like applesauce, flax eggs, quinoa, and almond butter, these brownies are a guilt-free indulgence. But don’t be fooled: they still taste rich and chocolatey, with a moist, fudgy texture that will satisfy even the most intense chocolate cravings. So go ahead and have that second (or third) square – you deserve it!
Summary
You have discovered a variety of delicious and healthy quinoa recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any meal. These recipes include quinoa salads, bowls, and even quinoa-based desserts. By incorporating quinoa into your diet, you can enjoy a nutrient-dense food that is high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Experiment with different flavor combinations and ingredients to create your own unique quinoa dishes.
Hiroshi Nakamura, a Tokyo-born sushi chef turned US-based writer and critic, is the voice behind ichisushi.com, blending traditional sushi wisdom with modern insights.