Take your taste buds on a tropical getaway with this vibrant and wholesome Pina Colada Quinoa recipe! Combining the nutty richness of fluffy quinoa with the creamy goodness of coconut milk and the sweet tang of juicy pineapple chunks, this dish is a fresh twist on classic island flavors. Accented with shredded unsweetened coconut, a touch of honey or maple syrup, and a splash of zesty lime juice, every bite bursts with tropical flair. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect as a light main course, a refreshing side dish, or even a unique breakfast option. Garnished with fresh mint for an extra burst of aroma, Pina Colada Quinoa is a healthy, gluten-free, and dairy-free delight that can be served warm, room temperature, or chilled. Ideal for summer brunches, weeknight meals, or meal prep, this dish is as versatile as it is irresistible!
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh strainer to remove its natural bitterness.
In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa, coconut milk, water, and salt. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid. Let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
While the quinoa cooks, if using fresh pineapple, chop it into small chunks. If using canned pineapple, drain and cut into smaller pieces if needed.
When the quinoa is done cooking, remove it from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Then fluff the quinoa with a fork.
Gently fold in the pineapple chunks, shredded coconut, honey (or maple syrup), and lime juice into the cooked quinoa until evenly combined.
Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness or salt levels as desired.
Transfer the Pina Colada Quinoa to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh mint, if desired. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Calories |
977 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 26.1 g | 33% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.3 g | 62% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1833 mg | 80% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 165.1 g | 60% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.2 g | 26% | |
| Total Sugars | 58.8 g | ||
| Protein | 26.7 g | 53% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 89 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 6.3 mg | 35% | |
| Potassium | 680 mg | 14% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.