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)

Peanut Soy Bulgur Pilaf
Large platter of bulgur pilaf.

Peanut Soy Bulgur Pilaf

This hearty and satisfying whole-grain recipe combines savory soy, crunchy nuts and fresh green onion.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
3 Cups
Sesame Broccoli
Bowl of tender broccoli sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Sesame Broccoli

Sauteed broccoli with a savory sesame sauce. Ready in 30 minutes or less!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Garlic Ginger Ramen with Beef
Bowl of ramen noodles and vegetables shown with a renge spoon.

Garlic Ginger Ramen with Beef

A dinner that is ready in under 30 minutes and packed with fresh ginger and garlic flavor.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
6 Cups
Minestrone Soup
Bowl of vegetable and macaroni noodle soup.

Minestrone Soup

This satisfying vegetable soup is full of veggies, beans and pasta.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
10 cups
Roasted Sugar Snap Peas
Recipe image

Roasted Sugar Snap Peas

Roasted snap peas with savory soy make this 5 ingredient recipe a tasty and satisfying side dish or snack.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Veggie Omelet in a Mug
Egg omelet topped with cheese in a mug.

Veggie Omelet in a Mug

A quick and easy recipe that uses the microwave to make a healthy breakfast.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
3 minutes