Fluffy Quinoa Base Recipe
This is one of the base recipes featured in our Whole Life Meal Plan. Quinoa is a popular, nutritious, and delicious whole grain that can be used in a variety of ways. Cooking quinoa is more about the technique than the recipe, so be sure to scroll up and read the article so that you can make tasty, fluffy quinoa every time!
Servings: 3 -4 cups
Ingredients
Base Recipe
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 1 ½ cups water or low-sodium broth or stock (broth or stock recommended)
- Kosher salt to taste
Additions to YOUR taste
- Up to 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs, loosely packed
- Up to 1/2 cup toasted nuts or seeds
- Up to 2 Tablespoons lemon or lime juice
- lemon or lime zest
- 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Up to 1 teaspoon spice(s)
Instructions
- If using fresh garlic, heat 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil in a medium saucepan (2-3 quarts) over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed quinoa to the saucepan and toast for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Add water or broth, a pinch of salt, and optional hearty herbs and/or spices. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Look for a ring to pop out! Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Uncover and fluff quinoa with a fork. Flavor with fresh herbs, citrus juice and/or zest, extra virgin olive oil, toasted nuts, and/or salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy!
Notes
Check the sodium content of the broth or stock before adding salt. If higher than 140 mg, consider eliminating or adding just a tiny pinch!
If adding fresh herbs after cooking, allow the quinoa to cool slightly before mixing in to keep the colors bright green.