Cooking With Quinoa: 3 Quick & Easy Recipes
Quinoa is a nutritional powerhouse. With its long list of health benefits, nutrients, and versatility, it is no surprise how often it’s used to make some of my favorite dishes.
The possibilities with quinoa are endless, and it can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Many choose to add quinoa in their salads, hearty grain bowls, casseroles, healthy wraps, and as an ingredient in tons of sweet breakfast recipes or desserts.
So I wanted to share the ways I have enjoyed quinoa.
From stuffed quinoa bell peppers, served as-is with fresh flounder and a rich sauce, to being tossed in a warm salad filled with roasted veggies and a homemade vinaigrette, I think you’re gonna enjoy the nutty flavor of quinoa in these recipes.
Before we dig into the recipes, what exactly is quinoa?
Pronounced KEEN-wah, quinoa is actually not a grain — although it is used in the same way rice, farro, or other similar grains would be used. It is a grain-like and naturally gluten-free pseudocereal hailing from South America.
What are some differences between quinoa and rice?
As I mentioned earlier, quinoa is really good for you. A cup of quinoa provides twice the amount of protein (packing more than any other grain) and fiber as the same amount of white rice. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids. Plus, it’s packed full of antioxidants, which can also help with blood sugar, aid in weight loss, and improve your cholesterol. Clearly, quinoa is the way to go and is a worthy inclusion in your diet.
Quinoa comes in various colors– like red, black, or white, but they all cook the same way. While the lighter varieties carry a mild flavor, the darker varieties are more robust.
The type of quinoa I use:
If not cooked correctly, quinoa can result in a mushy and overdone situation that no one wants. Using Tri-Color Boil-in-Bag Quinoa gives you moist, fluffy, and perfectly cooked quinoa in just 10 minutes — with zero bitter taste!
And here are a few recipes made using quinoa, perfect as a snack, lunch, or dinner:
Cajun and Creole recipes have a reputation for being full of flavor, and this Cajun Flounder with Ponchartrain Sauce served over a bed of quinoa is one of those recipes.
Because the blackened flounder and creamy sauce are heavier components of the dish, the light, and fluffy quinoa help balance it.
Health is wealth, and this Quinoa Roasted Veggie Salad with Homemade Vinaigrette provides a wealth of health in each bite. The taste and texture from the roasted veggies combined with nutty quinoa paired with this delicious homemade dressing is most definitely a championship tag team.
I love cooking with roasted vegetables like zucchini and sweet potatoes, and as the temperatures drop, a warm, fresh salad calls my name. The slightly tart vinaigrette locks in the flavors in both the veggies and quinoa.
If you love Southwestern dishes, these Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers are an awesome choice. Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it is also packed with tons of tasty ingredients like sweet corn, black beans, and pico de galloYou can take these stuffed peppers a step further and pair them with guacamole, sour cream, salsa, or any other spicy topping.
Hopefully, you now have three more ways to love and enjoy quinoa!