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)

Honey Mustard Green Beans
Bowl of green beans coated with sauce.

Honey Mustard Green Beans

Green beans are tossed in a blend of mustard, honey and vinegar. A great side dish!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Roasted Asparagus
Plate of tender asparagus.

Roasted Asparagus

You only need 3 ingredients to make this tender asparagus dish. The perfect side to a variety of meals.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
3 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
Quick Chicken Rice Soup
Two bowls of soup filled with rice, chicken and vegetables.

Quick Chicken Rice Soup

This filling soup is simple to make with pantry ingredients.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
25 minutes
Makes:
8 cups
Carrot Cake Cookies
Round cookies on a plate.

Carrot Cake Cookies

Soft and tasty cookies filled with oatmeal, carrots and raisins. These are a healthy snack or dessert that the whole family will love!
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
48 Cookies
Pumpkin Pudding
Spiced Pumpkin Pudding in a small bowl.

Pumpkin Pudding

A creamy pudding that is full of warm fall spices and pumpkin flavor.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
4 cups