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)

Pasta Ratatouille
Rotini noodles with vegetables and shredded cheese.

Pasta Ratatouille

Fresh summer veggies and herbs make the perfect topping for hearty pasta.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
9 cups
Cranberry Applesauce
Bowl of smooth apple and cranberry puree.

Cranberry Applesauce

A new way to enjoy applesauce that is bright, flavorful and kid-approved.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
6 cups
Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables
Glass jars of peppers, garlic, asparagus and carrots in pickling brine.

Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables

Make your own crispy pickled vegetables at home with this simple recipe.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Makes:
2 pints or 1 quart
Cucumber Flavored Water
Glasses of ice water with thin slices of cucumber.

Cucumber Flavored Water

Homemade flavored water is a refreshing way to stay hydrated!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Stir-Fry Noodles with Peanut Sauce
Plate of stir-fried noodles with chicken and vegetables.

Stir-Fry Noodles with Peanut Sauce

Make your own stir fry ramen noodles with chicken, vegetables and a creamy peanut sauce.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
10 cups
Broccoli Raisin Salad
A bowl is filled with crunchy salad featuring broccoli, raisins and sunflower seeds.

Broccoli Raisin Salad

A quick and delicious salad that will be a hit at home or at a party.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Makes:
6 Cups