The simple and fool-proof method of how to make quinoa! Only 2 ingredients and 20 minutes are all it takes to cook perfect quinoa every time.

I always have a Tupperware of quinoa stashed in my fridge. It’s such an easy replacement for rice, adds protein and fiber to a yummy salad, or makes a great addition to a soup! It really is a versatile food that everyone should keep on hand. Not only can it be super tasty, but is considered a nutrient-dense “superfood”. I have had people tell me they aren’t crazy about the taste, but I’m here to tell you that it can be so yummy when used in the right recipe and cooked properly!!

I love it so much that I eat it almost every day. Eating it plain is not that exciting; it’s kind of the same thing as eating plain rice. It needs a little flavor and should enhance the meal rather than be the star of the meal! I love to add it to my salad for lunch, making my lunch a lot more filling. I also love it served in a taco bowl with some delicious fix-ins!!

What is Quinoa?

While it is technically a seed, quinoa is considered a whole grain that is full of fiber, vitamins, and protein. It can be enjoyed plain or is super versatile which makes it a great addition to many recipes. I share some of my favorites at the bottom of the post. This method for how to cook quinoa will give you the perfect quinoa every time! You can usually find quinoa at your local grocery store near the rice and lentils, or in the health section.

Cooking Quinoa

Can you flavor quinoa in a simple way? The answer is of course! The easiest way to give it more flavor or an earthy taste is to boil quinoa with vegetable or chicken broth. The ratio is 2-1 in favor of the broth. I find that 2 cups of broth with 1 cup of quinoa can usually last me all week. Feel free to double if you have grand plans of adding it to something substantial like soup. Just a quick caveat with soup, it’s best to make sure your quinoa is cold and already cooked before adding it to a hot soup. Otherwise, it may expand and get too mushy.

All you need to make the perfect quinoa is a small saucepan, quinoa, broth, and a lid to secure. And of course, about 20 minutes of your time. Prep on the weekends to make things easy for you throughout the week! I do recommend rinsing or soaking your quinoa before cooking it. This gets rid of the quinoa’s naturally coating that gives it a bitter taste. This is easiest to do in a fine mesh strainer with cold water.

How to Make Quinoa

Here is a brief overview of how to cook quinoa on the stovetop. For the full recipe including all measurements, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.

1. Combine quinoa and broth in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. 
2. Cook the quinoa. Cook until the quinoa can be fluffed with a fork and the broth has been absorbed.
3. Let it sit. When it is done cooking, remove the lid and remove the pan from heat. Let it stand a few minutes before serving.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Cooked quinoa can be stored in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to one week. Reheat it in the microwave or enjoy cold. This is a great recipe for meal prepping. You can make a double batch and eat it throughout the whole week.

How to Use Quinoa

Cooked quinoa is such a versatile dish. From breakfast to lunch to dinner, here are a few of my favorite quinoa recipes:

• Chicken Quinoa Curry
• Broccoli and Quinoa Egg Muffins
• Chicken and Quinoa Soup
• Southwest Quinoa Salad

If you make this simple recipe for how to make quinoa or any of my other recipes, please leave a comment and let me know what you think. I love hearing from you!