How to Cook Quinoa

Fluffy, perfectly cooked quinoa made with water and salt. This easy quinoa recipe is ideal for healthy salads, grain bowls, side dishes, and meal prep. Quick to cook and naturally high in protein and fiber, it pairs well with vegetables, chicken, or seafood.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (185 g) uncooked quinoa (any variety)
• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) water
• ½ tsp kosher salt

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Instructions

Rinse the Quinoa

1. Place quinoa in a fine-mesh colander and rinse under cool running water. Drain thoroughly.

Cook the Quinoa

1. Transfer quinoa to a medium saucepan. Add water and kosher salt, and stir to combine.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to the lowest setting, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed.

Finish and Fluff

1. Remove the saucepan from heat and let quinoa sit, covered, for 5 minutes without lifting the lid.
2. Uncover and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This basic quinoa recipe produces fluffy, light grains perfect for salads, bowls, or side dishes. Quinoa cooks quickly and is naturally high in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

Tips

• Rinse quinoa to remove its natural bitter coating, called saponin.
• Let it sit covered after cooking to allow the grains to steam and become fluffier.
• Use a fork, not a spoon, to fluff for the best texture.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cook quinoa in vegetable or chicken broth for added flavor.
• Add a bay leaf, garlic, or herbs to the water while cooking for subtle seasoning.
• Substitute with red or black quinoa for color and slightly nuttier flavor.

FAQs

Can I cook quinoa without rinsing?
Yes, but rinsing removes the natural bitterness and improves flavor.

How long can cooked quinoa be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can quinoa be frozen?
Yes, cooked quinoa freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Serving

Use cooked quinoa as a base for grain bowls, salads, side dishes, or even breakfast porridge.

Suggestions

• Mix with roasted vegetables, beans, or herbs for a nutritious salad.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal.
• Add a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice for simple flavor enhancement.