When it comes to finding delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make meals, quinoa is a great place to start. This protein-rich grain is a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason – it’s packed with fiber, iron, and magnesium, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, quinoa can be adapted to fit your taste buds and dietary needs. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering quinoa recipes that are perfect for every meal of the day. From savory salads to hearty bowls and flavorful stir-fries, these dishes showcase the versatility and flavor of quinoa. So, let’s get cooking and discover some new favorite meals!
Lemon Garlic Herb Quinoa Salad
A refreshing and flavorful quinoa salad perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the garlic-lemon mixture.
4. Fold in chopped parsley and mint.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Southwest Quinoa Bowl
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and nutritious quinoa bowl, packed with the bold flavors of the Southwest. This recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy avocado for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Grill or sauté chicken with cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper until cooked through.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and add bell pepper and onion; cook until tender.
4. Add corn kernels and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked quinoa, chicken, and vegetables in a bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top with avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Coconut Curry Quinoa with Chickpeas
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of quinoa with the creamy richness of coconut curry, all while adding a boost of protein from chickpeas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cooked chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Serve quinoa topped with the coconut curry mixture.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Pilaf
Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Pilaf: A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large red onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
3. Toss bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and add roasted vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking time: approximately 40-45 minutes.
Mediterranean Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of quinoa, Mediterranean spices, and feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, feta cheese, parsley, mint, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mango Avocado Quinoa Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of avocado with the sweetness of mango and the nutty flavor of quinoa, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mango, avocado, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and salt. Pour over the mango-avocado mixture and toss to coat.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and add it to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Buffalo Chickpea Quinoa Wraps
These wraps are a flavorful twist on traditional quinoa bowls, combining the creamy spiciness of buffalo sauce with the nutty goodness of quinoa. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Optional: shredded carrot, diced bell pepper, crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together buffalo sauce and olive oil. Add chickpeas, onion, garlic, and salt; stir until well combined.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble wraps by spreading about 1/2 cup of the buffalo chickpea mixture onto each tortilla, then top with quinoa and any desired optional toppings.
5. Roll up wraps tightly and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Teriyaki Mushroom Quinoa Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all wrapped up in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and soy sauce. Pour the sauce into the skillet or wok and stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve quinoa topped with mushroom mixture and garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Quinoa with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This flavorful side dish combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the bright, herby flavor of pesto and the chewy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a vibrant addition to your favorite salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pesto and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked quinoa, basil leaves, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Fold in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
5. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Quinoa Tacos
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of quinoa with the vibrant flavors of black beans, corn, and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add black beans, corn kernels, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. Stir in the black bean mixture.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions or grill for added smokiness.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning quinoa mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Quinoa Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tanginess of feta cheese, the brininess of Kalamata olives, and the brightness of fresh parsley. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, feta cheese, olives, and parsley.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (quinoa cooking time)
Thai Peanut Quinoa Bowl
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creamy richness of peanut sauce, all wrapped up in a colorful bowl. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until smooth.
3. Add diced bell peppers to the peanut sauce and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and transfer it to a bowl. Top with the peanut-bell pepper mixture and sprinkle with cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Parmesan Quinoa
Elevate your quinoa game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the savory goodness of parmesan cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the nuttiness of butter. This dish is perfect as a side or can be used as a base for your favorite proteins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the cooked quinoa until well combined with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese evenly over the quinoa mixture and stir until melted and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
BBQ Pulled Jackfruit Quinoa Bowl
This vegan-friendly recipe combines the tender texture of jackfruit with the rich flavors of BBQ sauce, all wrapped up in a nutritious quinoa bowl. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can jackfruit (drained and chopped)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add chopped jackfruit and BBQ sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until jackfruit is tender.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. Divide among bowls.
6. Top quinoa with BBQ jackfruit mixture, garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Harissa Roasted Carrot Quinoa
This flavorful dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted carrots with the warmth of North African harissa and nutty quinoa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons harissa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large bowl, toss carrots with harissa, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
4. Spread carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and serve with roasted carrots.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Chipotle Lime Quinoa with Avocado
Add a burst of flavor to your meal with this spicy and refreshing quinoa dish, infused with the creaminess of avocado. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced chipotle pepper, garlic, and lime juice to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in the chipotle mixture.
6. Serve hot, topped with diced avocado.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Quinoa with Raisins
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the warm spices of Morocco, sweet raisins, and a hint of citrus. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add quinoa, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add water or broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. Stir in raisins and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Quinoa Fried Rice with Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines cooked quinoa with a variety of colorful vegetables and savory seasonings. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cooked quinoa, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato and Kale Quinoa Bake
A nutritious and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy taste of kale, all wrapped up in a quinoa “blanket”.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup of quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate pot, cook quinoa according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine roasted sweet potatoes, cooked quinoa, chopped kale, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Quinoa with Spinach
Experience the flavors of Italy with this creamy quinoa dish packed with fresh spinach and a hint of garlic. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with the spinach mixture, heavy cream, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 20 delicious and flavorful quinoa recipes! From savory salads to hearty bowls, and even sweet bakes, this collection has something for every taste and occasion. Discover unique flavor combinations like Lemon Garlic Herb Quinoa Salad, Spicy Southwest Quinoa Bowl, and Thai Peanut Quinoa Bowl. Try stuffing peppers with Mediterranean Quinoa or enjoying a Chipotle Lime Quinoa wrap. With quinoa as the base, these recipes offer endless possibilities for creativity and nutrition. Prepare to get cooking and elevate your meal game!