These are the best quinoa recipes that are perfect for any meal, from breakfast to dinner, and are healthy and kid-friendly.
Quinoa is a grain that is high in protein and fiber and is known to lower cholesterol and blood sugar. It also contains a lot of antioxidants, and it is naturally gluten-free.
So, it is a grain that has many benefits, and you can use it in many different recipes.
You should definitely try some of these quinoa recipes!
How to Cook Perfect Quinoa
To cook quinoa, simply use a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to liquid (water or stock) and bring the water to a boil before adding the rinsed quinoa. Cover and simmer until the water has been absorbed and the quinoa is tender, which should take about 20 minutes.
Now that you know how beneficial quinoa is for your health, and how to cook it, you may be looking for some quinoa recipes! Luckily, we’ve gathered 20 of our all-time favorite quinoa recipes! Ranging from healthy quinoa dishes to summery quinoa salads and filling quinoa bowls, these simple recipes are sure to please.
1. Quinoa Salad with Orange, Cranberry and Mint
This is my favorite quinoa salad would be great for a potluck or summer BBQ. It has a light and refreshing taste, with plenty of delicious flavors.
The orange, cranberry, and mint go well together, and the feta adds a lovely creamy saltiness. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, and can be served as either a main dish or side.
2. Fluffy Quinoa
Quinoa is a healthy grain that can be added to any meal. It can be a bit wet if not cooked properly, but this recipe guarantees fluffy quinoa every time!
I recommend cooking it in veggie broth instead of water for a subtle flavor that pairs well with any protein.
3. Cherry Pistachio Quinoa Salad
This salad made with sweet cherries, savory pistachios, and nutty quinoa is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
It’s healthy too!
Quinoa is full of vitamins and minerals, and pistachios are a terrific source of protein. So go ahead and indulge guilt-free.
Serve the salad as a side dish, or add grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
4. Black Bean and Quinoa Enchilada Bake
This dish is a healthier alternative to enchiladas that still has all the flavor. The black beans and quinoa provide protein and fiber, while the vegetables add nutrients and flavor. Serve this enchilada bake with a salad or corn chips to scoop up the yumminess. It is also great as leftovers – simply reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick next day meal.
5. Pear Quinoa Salad with Arugula and Roasted Hazelnuts
This salad is perfect for your next light lunch. It’s packed with sweet pears, savory hazelnuts, and peppery arugula, all sitting on top of a filling quinoa base. The roasted hazelnuts add a perfect crunch.
6. Kale and Quinoa Salad
Try something new for breakfast and pair kale and delicious quinoa together! This recipe has a lemon dressing to give it a zesty flavor.
This vegetarian meal is ideal for those who are health-conscious and love to eat greens. For added protein, top with grilled tofu or seitan. Crumbled feta cheese also makes a great topping for a bit of creaminess.
7. Quinoa Cumin Crackers with Carrot Hummus
When you’re looking for a crispy, savory snack, quinoa and cumin crackers are the perfect choice. They’re also easy to make, and go well with carrot hummus. I like to make a big batch of them at the beginning of the week so I have them on hand for a healthy snack.
8. Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers with quinoa is a yummy, nutritious, and straightforward meal to make that will please everyone at the dinner table.
As opposed to rice (the typical stuffed pepper filling), quinoa has the additional advantage of being high in protein, which will keep you sated for a longer period of time.
Simply mix in some veggies and spices, and you’re ready to eat!
9. Spring Quinoa Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette
Check out this healthy quinoa recipe! This grain, rich in protein, is the perfect way to turn a humble salad into a filling meal.
The honey lemon vinaigrette is light and invigorating, while the feta cheese brings plenty of delectable creaminess.
Even better, you can tailor this recipe to your liking. So don’t hesitate to throw in some grilled tofu, chopped fruit, or nuts.
10. Balsamic Caprese Quinoa Salad
This dish is an excellent example of how healthy food can be full of flavor.
The fluffy quinoa, fresh mozzarella, and zesty tomatoes make this salad very satisfying.
The balsamic dressing adds a great depth of flavor, and the basil leaves make it look beautiful.
It only takes 30 minutes to make this super simple dish.
11. Blueberry Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
This delicious and nutritious breakfast bowl is the perfect way to start your day. It features quinoa, blueberries, and almond milk, providing an excellent balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The blueberries add a touch of sweetness, while the walnuts and pecans provide a satisfying crunch.
12. Quinoa Avocado Salad
This dish is perfect for your next protein dinner! It is packed with nutrients from the quinoa and avocado, while the grape, tomatoes and red onions add a pop of color and flavor. I like it with crumbled feta and corn too!
13. BLT Quinoa Salad
This quinoa salad recipe is a perfect example of something different that will still leave you feeling satisfied.
Sometimes all you need is a little change from the norm. This easy quinoa salad is the perfect variation on a classic sandwich. With only a few ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and makes for a great light lunch or side dish. You’ll be full after eating it, but it won’t weigh you down.
14. Quinoa Spring Rolls with Cashew Dipping Sauce
I love quinoa rolls that look so refreshing and vibrant! I love that you can see all the colorful ingredients through the wrapper.
The recipe calls for a simple mix of chopped cucumber, red pepper, carrots, cilantro, and mint. But you can easily change up those flavors.
What you don’t want to mess with though is the sauce! It’s nutty, smooth, zippy, and absolutely delicious!
15. Quinoa Pancakes
Why would you make regular pancakes when you could make them healthy and loaded with nutrients? Not only are they a delicious and nutritious way to start your day, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make. Learn how to cook them with fresh fruit and maple syrup. Yum!
16. Crockpot Spicy Vegetarian Tortilla Soup with Quinoa
This protein and fiber-rich quinoa soup, complete with an array of veggies, will leave you feeling satisfied. The Crockpot makes it easy to prepare. Top your bowl with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for a delicious and nutritious meal.
17. 5-Ingredient Garlic Butter Quinoa
This great quinoa dish is meant for busy days because it only calls for five ingredients and can be on the table in less than 30 minutes. The garlic gives the dish a savory note, while the salt and broth enhance the flavors. Meanwhile, the butter adds flavor and creaminess. This is basically a vegetarian recipe, feel free to change butter for oil or vegan butter.
18. Roasted Mushrooms with Herbed Quinoa
If you need a delicious and healthy recipe that will definitely satisfy, try roasted mushrooms with herbed quinoa.
This meal is full of flavor, thanks to the combination of earthy mushrooms, nutty quinoa, and fresh herbs.
Even though the recipe is already great, I always add some rosemary and thyme for extra aromatic flavors.
19. One-Pot Quinoa with Peas and Parmesan
This one-pot quinoa and pea dish is one of our favorite for the whole family. It’s hearty and healthy, and the cheesy flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, since it only dirty one pot, you won’t have to spend all night cleaning up afterwards. Win-win!
20. Strawberry Quinoa Salad
Those who claim they don’t like salad have clearly never had one as delicious as this!
This dish is not only nutritious, but also delicious and visually appealing. The sweet strawberries and fluffy quinoa contrast well with the bitter greens, making it a well-rounded and tasty meal.
This is a perfect vegetarian dish any time of day because of the healthy salad ingredients and delicious dressing.
21. Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach and Quinoa Salad
This salad is ideal vegetarian snack for your next summer picnic! The sun-dried tomatoes add a chewy texture with plenty of tangy flavor, while the spinach provides a garden-fresh finish. Enjoy quinoa packed with protein and nutrients, making this salad a true powerhouse.
22. High Protein Healthy Egg Scramble with Quinoa
Most people are aware that breakfast is the most crucial meal of the day. However, what do you do when you no longer desire eggs and oatmeal? The answer is easy – you make this protein-packed egg scramble with quinoa! This dish contains all the necessary ingredients to keep you satisfied and energized, including grains, eggs, and spinach. Plus, feel free to use vegan bacon if you want!
23. Curried Quinoa Salad
This healthy side dish can be made with classic variety of quinoa, and the addition of curry to this dish takes it to a new level of deliciousness. The colors in the dish are also very appealing and make it look like a gourmet meal. The tahini adds another layer of flavor and texture to an already complex and tasty dish.
24. Quinoa Meatballs
Quinoa meatballs are a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs. They’re made with quinoa and lentils, ensuring every bite is protein-packed and meat-free. And they go with pretty much every sauce you can think of. Serve them as an appetizer, add them to your favorite pasta dish, or stuff them into a sub with gooey melted cheese. Either way, you’ll love them!
25. Mediterranean Salmon and Vegetable Quinoa
This recipe is healthy and delicious. It’s easy to cook and has a great texture contrast. Perfect for anyone trying to eat healthily! The salmon is stuffed with nutrients and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Add some colorful, flavorful veggies for a texture contrast, and you’re good to go.
26. Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad
A salad might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re looking for a meal, but this recipe worked perfectly for years for us and will change your opinion.
The key to make this recipe is using fresh, flavorful ingredients, and this recipe is full of them.
The roasted broccoli is crispy and slightly sweet while the quinoa gives a nutty contrast.
It’s also packed with kale, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas for a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
27. Apple Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad
Learn how to cook perfect salad full of the flavors of fall. You’ll pair sweet, crisp apples with nutty quinoa and earthy sweet potatoes. So, every bite is exciting. Throw in some cranberries for a chewy contrast, and a bit of goat cheese will bring a tangy element I know you’ll love.
28. Mexican Quinoa Salad
This Mexican quinoa salad bowl recipe is full of Tex-Mex flavors and is perfect when you’re craving something spicy. The combination of fresh vegetables, beans, and seasonings makes every spoonful flavorful and nutrient-rich. Top the salad with shredded cheese and crunchy tortilla strips for an added touch of flavor.
29. Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is a winter squash with a delicious, nutty taste that can be roasted, steamed, pureed, or stuffed. I always crave it during the holidays, and this stuffed squash recipe is my favorite. The savory filling of quinoa, onions, and cranberries nestled inside the sweet shell is so satisfying and perfect for any autumn-inspired occasion.
30. Quinoa Rice Pudding Recipe
There are so many ways to enjoy rice pudding, and I love trying out different flavors and toppings. This quinoa version is one of my favorites because it’s super creamy and sweet. The quinoa creates a thick texture that’s more like chia pudding, but it’s still crazy tasty and pretty good for you too.
31. Gluten-Free Flourless Chocolate Quinoa Cake
This rich, delicious, chocolatey cake is gluten-free and adds up to the easy quinoa recipes everyone can cook.
You’ll need to cook the cup of quinoa until it’s tender, then blend it with cake staples until smooth.
Bake and enjoy! You’ve got an amazing chocolate cake on your hands!
32. Double Chocolate Quinoa Brownies
This entire pan of brownies is going to be gone before you know it!
They’re that rich, chocolatey, and moist – not to mention healthy, thanks to the applesauce, flax eggs, quinoa, and almond butter. So go ahead and have another piece!
32 Best Vegetarian Quinoa Meals
Find a collection of great quinoa recipes for every meal of the day such as quinoa salad recipes, and instructions on how to cook quinoa.
Ingredients
- Quinoa Avocado Salad
- Apple Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad
- Mexican Quinoa Salad
- Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash
- Quinoa Rice Pudding Recipe
- Gluten-Free Flourless Chocolate Quinoa Cake
- High Protein Healthy Egg Scramble with Quinoa
- Double Chocolate Quinoa Brownies
Instructions
- Choose your favorite recipe.
- Get all the required ingredients.
- Make a delicious quinoa recipe in 30 minutes or less!