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)

Fish Tacos
Platter of corn tortillas with creamy slaw and fish filling served with lime wedges.

Fish Tacos

30-minute tacos with a creamy slaw, tangy lime and a hint of cayenne.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
8 tacos
Black Bean Brownies (with flour)
Black Bean Brownies on a plate

Black Bean Brownies (with flour)

Surprise yourself and others with these chocolatey cake-like brownies made with black beans.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
16 pieces
Vegetables and Turkey Stir-Fry
Plate of rice with a turkey and vegetable topping.

Vegetables and Turkey Stir-Fry

Quick and easy turkey meal with garlic, ginger and whole grain noodles.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
6 cups
Black-Eyed Peas and Quinoa Salad
Bowl of Black-Eyed Peas and Quinoa Salad.

Black-Eyed Peas and Quinoa Salad

Enjoy this main dish or side salad that is full of flavor, color, texture and nutrients.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
7 cups
Banana Ginger Sauce
A bowl of banana ginger sauce is shown with raw veggie strips and grilled tofu kebabs for dipping.

Banana Ginger Sauce

Inspired by banana ketchup, a condiment from the Philippines, this sweet and tangy sauce is the perfect addition to many dishes!
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
1 cup
Salmon Patties
Plate of golden Salmon Patties with lemon slices.

Salmon Patties

Vitamin-rich salmon makes a delicious patty. Enjoy on its own or add to a bun for a tasty sandwich.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
10 to 15 minutes
Makes:
4 patties (4-inch)
Was this page helpful to you?
CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.