Are you looking for a healthy and delicious way to add some nutrients to your meals? Look no further! Quinoa and kale are two superfood ingredients that pair perfectly together, offering a boost of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering quinoa and kale recipes that will keep you coming back for more.
From savory dishes like Quinoa Kale Stuffed Peppers to sweet treats like Quinoa Kale Chocolate Energy Bites, there’s something for everyone in this collection of healthy meal ideas. Whether you’re a busy professional or an active athlete, these recipes are designed to fuel your body and satisfy your taste buds.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe, sharing cooking tips, nutritional information, and beautiful photos to inspire your culinary creations.
Quinoa and Kale Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, all wrapped up in a colorful bell pepper. Perfect as a main dish or side, this stuffed pepper is a healthy and delicious option for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese or sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped kale, black beans, onion, and garlic.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Warm Quinoa and Kale Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this nutritious and flavorful combination of warm quinoa, wilted kale, and creamy lemon tahini dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, toss quinoa with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread quinoa mixture on a baking sheet and warm in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. In a large skillet, heat garlic over medium-high heat. Add kale and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted (about 5 minutes).
5. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine warmed quinoa, wilted kale, and lemon tahini dressing in a bowl. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Quinoa and Kale Patties
These savory patties are a nutritious twist on traditional burgers, packed with the earthy flavor of kale and the crunch of quinoa. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for binding)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, kale, oats, Parmesan cheese, onion, and garlic.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until the mixture is well combined.
3. Add the lightly beaten egg and mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size.
5. Shape each portion into a patty and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa Kale Soup with Turmeric and Ginger
This vibrant soup combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, all infused with the warm and comforting spices of turmeric and ginger. Perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, turmeric, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add quinoa and water or broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is tender.
5. Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quinoa Kale Buddha Bowl with Avocado Dressing
A nutritious and filling bowl packed with quinoa, kale, roasted vegetables, and creamy avocado dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, peeled and diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado Dressing (recipe below)
– Optional: sliced almonds or sesame seeds for garnish
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add kale to the skillet; cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Roast bell pepper in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
6. Assemble bowls by placing cooked quinoa at the bottom, followed by roasted vegetables and wilted kale.
Avocado Dressing:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl; adjust seasoning as needed.
Garlicky Quinoa and Kale Stir-Fry
In this quick and flavorful stir-fry, the earthiness of quinoa is paired with the boldness of garlic and the slight bitterness of kale. A perfect combination for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the chopped kale to the skillet, stirring constantly, and cook until slightly wilted (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Stir in the cooked quinoa, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Quinoa Kale Casserole with Cheese and Herbs
This hearty casserole combines the nutty flavor of quinoa, the earthy taste of kale, and the creaminess of cheese, all wrapped up in a satisfying package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add kale to the skillet; cook until wilted.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, kale mixture, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Kale Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy goodness of kale. This scramble is perfect for a quick morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed and discarded
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked kale in the skillet.
5. Stir occasionally until the eggs are scrambled to your liking.
6. Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet and stir until well combined with the eggs and kale.
7. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and let melt for an additional 30 seconds.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Spicy Quinoa Kale Tacos with Lime Crema
This recipe combines the nutty flavors of quinoa and kale with a spicy kick, all wrapped up in crispy tacos shells. The creamy lime sauce adds a bright and refreshing touch to this flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below for recipe)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add kale to the skillet; cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning quinoa-kale mixture onto tortillas and topping with lime crema.
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
Mix all ingredients together until smooth; refrigerate until ready to use.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa Kale Pesto Pasta
A nutritious twist on traditional pasta, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy goodness of kale and a vibrant pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine cooked quinoa, pesto sauce, and wilted kale mixture in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the quinoa-kale-pesto mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Quinoa and Kale Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
A delicious and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed sweet potatoes, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
5. Add chopped kale to the skillet; cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in kale mixture.
7. Split sweet potatoes open and top each with quinoa-kale mixture.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each sweet potato.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Quinoa Kale Smoothie Bowl with Berries
Get a boost of nutrients from this refreshing and healthy smoothie bowl recipe, packed with protein-rich quinoa, nutrient-dense kale, and antioxidant-rich berries.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale leaves
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add quinoa, kale, and frozen berries to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add sliced banana, chia seeds, honey, and vanilla extract; blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as needed.
5. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with your favorite toppings (e.g., granola, nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Quinoa Kale Fritters with Yogurt Dip
A healthier twist on traditional fritters, these quinoa kale bites are packed with nutrients and flavor. Serve them with a refreshing yogurt dip for a satisfying snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, kale, flour, cheese (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Using your hands, shape mixture into small patties, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While fritters are baking, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
7. Serve fritters warm with yogurt dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa and Kale Sushi Rolls
Discover a healthy twist on traditional sushi with these quinoa and kale rolls, packed with nutritious ingredients and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Optional: avocado, cucumber, carrot, or other fillings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Mix cooked quinoa, chopped kale, brown rice, water, and salt in a bowl.
2. Lay the nori sheet flat and spread about 1/2 cup of the quinoa mixture onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
4. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Slice each roll into 8 equal pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame oil for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quinoa Kale Risotto with Mushrooms
This hearty quinoa risotto combines the nutty flavor of cooked quinoa with the earthy taste of sautéed mushrooms and the slight bitterness of kale. Perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and leaves torn
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Gradually add warmed broth to the skillet, stirring constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
7. Stir in cooked quinoa and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Quinoa and Kale Power Wraps with Hummus
Recharge your day with these nutrient-dense wraps, packed with quinoa, kale, and creamy hummus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and/or feta cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with chopped kale, salt, and olive oil.
3. Spread hummus evenly on the tortilla, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Add the quinoa-kale mixture on one half of the tortilla, followed by any desired toppings (avocado, cherry tomatoes, feta).
5. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to create a neat wrap.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly toasted and crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quinoa Kale Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a nutritious twist on traditional pancakes using quinoa, kale, and sweet maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine quinoa, kale, flour, eggs, milk, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto the pan.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
4. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on batch size)
Quinoa and Kale Chocolate Energy Bites
A nutritious twist on traditional energy bites, these treats combine the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, all wrapped up in a rich chocolate coating.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Chocolate chips or shaved dark chocolate (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, kale, oats, cocoa powder, honey, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands or a cookie scoop to form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly toasted.
5. Allow bites to cool completely before coating with melted chocolate chips or shaved dark chocolate (optional).
6. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the power of quinoa and kale in these 18 delicious and nutritious recipes. From breakfast to dinner, and even dessert, this duo will keep you full and satisfied while providing a boost of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Recipes include Quinoa and Kale Stuffed Peppers, Warm Quinoa and Kale Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing, Crispy Quinoa and Kale Patties, and many more. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a healthy snack, this collection has something for everyone.
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