Plain Quinoa
Discover the perfect way to prepare fluffy and versatile plain quinoa with this simple, fail-proof recipe that's ready in just 20 minutes! Made with only three ingredients—quinoa, water, and a touch of salt—this recipe highlights the nutty flavor and tender texture of quinoa while ensuring it’s never bitter thanks to a quick rinse to remove its natural coating, saponin. Ideal as a healthy, gluten-free side dish, a hearty salad base, or a foundation for meal prep, this quinoa is cooked to perfection with a light simmer and then steamed to achieve its signature fluffiness. Whether served warm alongside your favorite proteins or cooled for a refreshing bowl, this quick and wholesome recipe will quickly become a kitchen staple. Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free diets alike!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 0.25 teaspoons salt
Instructions
Rinse 1 cup of quinoa thoroughly under cold running water using a fine mesh strainer. This removes its natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa, 2 cups of water, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the water has been absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the quinoa to further steam and become fluffy.
After 5 minutes, fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains.
Serve immediately as a side dish or let it cool and use it as a base for salads or other dishes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
55 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.8 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2 g | 1% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 130 mg | 6% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 9.8 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.3 g | ||
| Protein | 2.0 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 20 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 0.7 mg | 4% | |
| Potassium | 79 mg | 2% | |
*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.
