4 Simple Ways to Cook With Quinoa + Health Benefits

Hey there! Get ready for a fun dive into the world of quinoa, a superfood that's become a favorite for health junkies everywhere. Quinoa is an excellent protein source for vegetarians, providing all nine essential amino acids while being versatile enough to enhance a variety of dishes. Quinoa is considered a complete protein and is an awesome addition to any diet, but a lot of people aren't really sure about how to incorporate it into their cooking... In this post, I'm sharing four tasty and quick quinoa recipes, plus all the great health perks of adding this grain to more of your meals. Let’s jump in and see how you can make your meals both delicious and healthy using quinoa!

Why Quinoa is Amazing for Your Health

• Complete Protein: Quinoa has all nine essential amino acids, making it a top-notch protein choice for vegetarians and vegans.

• Nutrient-Rich: It's loaded with vitamins and minerals like magnesium, iron, B vitamins, and antioxidants.

• Fiber-Packed: Quinoa is full of dietary fiber, which helps with digestion and keeping a healthy weight.

• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, quinoa is perfect for anyone with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

• Heart-Friendly: With healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties, quinoa can boost heart health.

Now that we know more about how awesome quinoa is for your health, let's check out four delicious and quick meals that make it easy to add this nutritious grain to your diet!

Dish #1: Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is not just a nutritious grain; it's a culinary canvas waiting to be transformed! My go-to method for preparing this superfood is not only quick and effortless but also perfect for meal prepping, ensuring you have delicious, wholesome meals ready for the days ahead.

With its delightful nutty flavor and fluffy texture, quinoa can be the star of any dish. Whether you're whipping up a vibrant salad, a hearty bowl, or a satisfying side, this method will elevate your quinoa game!

This vibrant and nutritious Mediterranean quinoa salad, bursts with flavors and colors. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, this salad combines wholesome ingredients to create a refreshing culinary experience!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

• 2 cups water or vegetable broth

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cucumber, diced

• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped

• 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, halved or quartered (based on preference)

• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 3 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1/4 teaspoon dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the quinoa cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

3. Add Olives and Feta: Stir in the cut artichoke hearts and crumbled feta cheese into the bowl with the vegetables.

4. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

5. Combine Everything: Once the quinoa has cooled, fluff it with a fork and add it to the vegetable mixture. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together.

6. Garnish and Serve: Finish by adding the chopped parsley for a fresh burst of flavor. Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy Your Creation!

This Mediterranean quinoa salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Enjoy it as a healthy lunch, a side dish at dinner, or a delightful addition to your next gathering!

Dish #2: Quinoa Power Bowl

Quinoa power bowls are easy to prepare and customizable for any taste or dietary preference. Whether you're a meat lover or vegetarian, the options are endless. Combine your choice of protein, like grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas, with fresh vegetables and dressings for a nutritious and flavorful meal. Quinoa power bowls are the perfect healthy throw together meal because they truly are that easy!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa

• 2 cups water or vegetable broth

• handful of brussels sprouts, halved

• handful cauliflower, chopped

• 1 squash, diced

• 1/2 sweet potato, diced

• chicken or any other protein, if desired

• 1 avocado, sliced

• dressing or sauce of choice

Garlic Tahini Sauce (optional)

• 1/4 cup tahini

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons dijon mustard

• juice of one lemon

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

4. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let it cool slightly.

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the brussels sprouts, cauliflower, squash, and sweet potato (protein if used, as well).

6. Add the cooked quinoa to the vegetable mixture.

7. In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce, if making.

8. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture, and toss gently to combine.

9. Serve the quinoa power bowl topped with sliced avocado.

10. Enjoy your nutritious and delicious quinoa veggie bowl!

Dish #3: Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers

In the mood to try out something a little different? Try out these delicious quinoa-stuffed bell peppers! These colorful beauties aren't just eye-catching; they're packed with flavor and nutrition. Each pepper is loaded with a mix of quinoa, fresh veggies, and aromatic spices, making every bite flavorful.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

• 2 cups vegetable broth or water

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

• juice from one lime

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish.

3. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.

4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, garlic and onion powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

5. Spoon the quinoa mixture into each bell pepper, packing it down gently. If using, top each filled pepper with shredded cheese.

6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Dish #4: Chicken, Quinoa, & Black Bean Chili

Test out this yummy chicken, quinoa, and black bean chili—a hearty dish loaded with protein and a spicy kick that'll warm you right up. This chili is perfect for fall and winter; it's warm, comforting, and filled with goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced or shredded

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• garlic, minced (cook with your heart)

• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 jar of salsa verde

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional minute to toast the spices.

5. Add the quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, salsa verde, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine.

6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the chicken is tender.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

8. Serve hot, topped with your choice of avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, and/or sour cream.

As you can see, quinoa is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can elevate your meals in a variety of ways. Whether you're preparing a refreshing Mediterranean quinoa salad, a hearty quinoa power bowl, flavorful quinoa stuffed bell peppers, or a comforting chicken, black bean, and quinoa chili, you have the inspiration to incorporate this superfood into your diet more regularly.

Check out more tasty recipes on our website! If you're looking for more healthy recipes to spice up your cooking, check out our other sections and keep an eye out for new recipes coming your way soon!