Skip to main content

Stovetop Quinoa

This grain-like seed is quick to cook and has an earthy flavor that goes well in salads, soups and stews.
Bowls of cooked quinoa.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 3 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa (if not pre-rinsed, rinse well using a fine-mesh strainer)
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, if desired, and return the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover pan and simmer for 12 minutes.
  4. Turn off heat and let stand until water is absorbed and quinoa has the texture you like, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • For more flavor, cook with broth or milk instead of water.
  • For a roasted flavor, toast the grains in the saucepan. Stir the grains around at medium heat for a few minutes before adding liquid.
  • Topping ideas: fresh, frozen or dried fruit; milk or yogurt; chopped nuts or seeds; cinnamon or other spices. Savory toppings include vegetables and cheese.
  • Add to soups, grain bowls or grain salads.
  • No strainer? Use a clean coffee filter.

Comments

This is a no-fail way to cook quinoa. Turning off the heat and letting it sit to soak up remaining water keeps it from being soggy and overcooked.

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Carrot Raisin Salad
Photo of Carrot Raisin Salad

Carrot Raisin Salad

Quick and easy side dish with a creamy and flavorful dressing. Only 4 ingredients and ready in 15 minutes!
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
2 ½ Cups
Mushroom Stroganoff
Rotini noodles with a cream and mushroom sauce.

Mushroom Stroganoff

A comforting dish combining whole grain noodles and a creamy mushroom sauce.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
6 cups
Herb Flavored Water
Glasses of ice water with mint and rosemary.

Herb Flavored Water

Create your own herb-flavored water recipe for refreshing hydration.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Crunchy Chicken Nuggets
Plate of golden breaded chicken with dipping sauce.

Crunchy Chicken Nuggets

Our quick and easy homemade chicken nuggets use cereal flakes for the breading.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
25 Chicken Nuggets
Glass of Sunshine Flavored Water
Pitcher of ice water with orange wedges.

Glass of Sunshine Flavored Water

Easy, homemade flavored water. So refreshing!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
0
Makes:
8 cups
Plant Part Salad
Wooden bowl filled with a variety of raw vegetables.

Plant Part Salad

Kids learn the parts of a plant and how to make a tasty salad with this recipe.
Prepare:
15 to 20 minutes
Makes:
12 cups