Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this Quinoa Fine Herbs and Garlic recipe—a flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes! This easy recipe features fluffy quinoa infused with the irresistible aroma of sautéed garlic and the bright, herbaceous flavors of fresh parsley, chives, and thyme. A touch of lemon zest adds a zippy citrus note, while olive oil ensures a luscious, well-coated finish. Not only is this dish a perfect gluten-free and vegan option, but it’s also versatile enough to pair seamlessly with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a zesty salad. Simple yet sophisticated, this quinoa recipe is an excellent choice for meal prep or a crowd-pleasing addition to your dinner table.
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh strainer to remove its natural bitterness.
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the quinoa and a pinch of salt, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan.
Simmer the quinoa for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the grains are tender. Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
While the quinoa is cooking, finely mince the garlic cloves, parsley, chives, and thyme.
Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and transfer it to a serving bowl. Stir in the sautéed garlic and olive oil mixture, making sure it is evenly distributed.
Add the chopped parsley, chives, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to the quinoa. Toss until everything is well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Calories |
864 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 40.1 g | 51% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2388 mg | 104% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 96.6 g | 35% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g | 11% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.3 g | ||
| Protein | 26.8 g | 54% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 127 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 7.9 mg | 44% | |
| Potassium | 460 mg | 10% | |
*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.