How to Cook Perfect Quinoa & 10 Quinoa Recipes
Learn all about quinoa—my secrets to cooking perfectly fluffy quinoa (no more mush!), 10 fantastic quinoa recipes, quinoa nutrition facts, and where to buy.
Updated by Kathryne Taylor on September 5, 2024
I like to consider myself a quinoa expert. I have cooked a lot of it for my cookbook. Small amounts, or lots at once, with spices and greens, or without—I’ve done it all. The standard quinoa cooking method started failing me early on. My quinoa was mushy and overdone, every time, and it was driving me nuts.
I tried using slightly less water than usual, which has been recommended elsewhere. It helped a little sometimes, but other times, I had to add more and more water while the quinoa was cooking. Then, the dry quinoa soaked up way too much of the dressing I added later.
At some point, I wondered, why do all the quinoa recipes suggest covering the quinoa while cooking? My quinoa was all overcooked and mushy, so covering it seemed like the last thing I should do.
Bingo! Here’s the trick for perfectly fluffy quinoa: Use twice as much water as quinoa, as usual, then cook uncovered until the quinoa has absorbed all the water. The cooking time will vary based on quantity.
Once the water is all absorbed, remove the pot from heat, cover it and let the quinoa steam for 5 minutes. That’s when the quinoa pops open into fluffy quinoa perfection, and that is how to cook quinoa properly.
I’ve gotten quite a few questions from you guys about how to avoid mushy quinoa, so I just had to share. I typed up the full recipe and instructions for you below.
Scroll down for the full recipe, plus a short video showing my technique and 10 of my favorite quinoa recipes. For even more quinoa inspiration, you can view all of my quinoa recipes here.
Watch How to Make Perfectly Fluffy Quinoa
Perfect Quinoa
Learn how to cook perfect quinoa, every time. I’ve tried all the other quinoa cooking methods and this one works best. It’s easy to cook fluffy quinoa when you know the right way to do it!
Ingredients
- 1 part uncooked quinoa (e.g. 1 cup quinoa—any color will do—you will end up with three times as much cooked quinoa)
- 2 parts water (e.g. 2 cups water)
- Salt, to taste (around ¼ teaspoon salt per cup of dry quinoa)
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa: Pour the quinoa into a fine mesh colander and rinse under running water for at least 30 seconds. Drain well. This step removes any bitterness on the outside of the quinoa (caused by naturally occurring saponins).
- Combine the rinsed quinoa and water in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then decrease the heat a bit to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook until the quinoa has absorbed all of the water, about 10 to 20 minutes (small amounts of quinoa will be ready closer to 10 minutes; larger amounts between 15 to 20). Reduce heat as time goes on to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Remove the pot from heat, cover, and let the quinoa steam for 5 minutes. This step gives the quinoa time to pop open into little curlicues, so it’s nice and fluffy. Remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Season with salt, to taste, unless you’re proceeding with another recipe as written.
Notes
Serving suggestions: I love to stir a drizzle of olive oil and clove of garlic into warm quinoa for extra flavor. Other options include chopped fresh spinach or arugula, or massaged kale. Fresh herbs and/or dried spices are nice, as well as grated or crumbled cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, pitted and sliced olives, etc.
Storage suggestions: Leftover quinoa keeps well, refrigerated, for 4 to 5 days. Make sure it has cooled to room temperature before covering and chilling.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice. See our full nutrition disclosure here.
Wait, what is quinoa?
In case you haven’t encountered quinoa yet, it is a pseudocereal that grows near the Andes in South America. By pseudocereal, I mean that it is grain-like, but it’s technically not a grass like wheat. Quinoa is pronounced KEEN-wah, although my dad likes to tease me by calling it queh-NO-ah.
Quinoa is very nutritious—it’s full of fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals, including manganese, magnesium and folate. Quinoa’s health benefits are really too long to list here, but the key point is that quinoa is remarkably dense in nutrients, and worth including in your diet.
You can buy quinoa in most grocery stores these days, usually in the health section or near the rice. You can also buy quinoa online at Amazon (affiliate link).
10 Favorite Quinoa Recipes
1) Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach and Quinoa Salad
“I have made this salad twice in a week it is that good – easy and delicious!” – Terri
2) Broccoli, Cheddar & Quinoa Gratin
“This was so good! I’ve been trying to find one dish recipes that can also feed baby and this was perfect! I was almost too lazy to make the breadcrumbs but I’m so glad I did because it was simple and and so worth it! I also used a bit of cauliflower because I had it and it was good in there too. I think I’m going to make this again and bring it to Easter! It’s a perfect healthier version of a classic!” – Stephanie
3) Quinoa Black Bean Tacos with Creamy Avocado Sauce
“This is one of my favorite dishes ever! Followed the instructions (first time ever was not inspired to change anything) and enjoyed a yummy dinner with my partner, twice now. He loved it as well! Thanks for sharing and good luck! :)” – Dessi
4) Colorful Beet Salad with Carrot, Quinoa & Spinach
“THE best salad ever! My husband and I absolutely love it! I’m sharing with my family and friends!” – Jacqueline
5) Quinoa Vegetable Soup with Kale
“I just found this recipe via pinterest! I made the soup yesterday and I absolutely love it!! Never thought of quinoa in soup but this makes so much sense! I am always looking for ways to add protein without adding meat so this is great and my whole family loves it! (I’m a college student by the way, not a mom, in case you couldn’t tell. lol) This soup is great for all ages!!” – Maya
6) Southwestern Kale Power Salad with Sweet Potato, Quinoa & Avocado Sauce
“We made this for dinner 2 hours ago and can’t stop talking about it! OMG! It was so delicious and full of flavor and it was easy to make. My kids loved it, too. We already can’t wait to make it again :) thank you so much!” – Tiffany
7) Favorite Quinoa Salad
“Delicious recipe, Kate. I’ve been crazing something light and refreshing and this quinoa salad hit the spot. This is definitely one of the best quinoa salads I’ve made. Your recipes never disappoint. Thank you!” – Allison
8) Crunchy Thai Peanut & Quinoa Salad
“Made this for dinner tonight when a friend came over. Even my four-year-old loved it! He is not always into raw veggies, but upon the first bite, exclaimed, “I like this! Yeah, I love it!” and had a second helping. We did leave the cilantro on the side for him. Will be making this again very soon.” – Lea
9) Quinoa Broccoli Slaw with Honey-Mustard Dressing
“Three of us polished off this recipe in one sitting. It was wonderful! Tangy, sweet and crunchy, thanks to the almonds. It was also so easy to make. Thank you!” – Leah
10) Cinnamon Toast Breakfast Quinoa
“Made this for breakfast this morning, and it’s amazing! It’s definitely going to be in my regular rotation.” – Carly
More resources you might appreciate: 23 make-ahead breakfast recipes, 16 recipes that pack well for lunch and 20 simple weeknight dinners. You can shop my essential kitchen equipment here. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for a steady stream of recipe inspiration!
When I make quinoa I make enough to be able to scoop some out thru the week an add cinnamon, honey nectar, raw honey and some milk to warm quinoa to make a rice pudding like recipe. It’s delish
Oops I forgot to add…. raisins!
how do you know when all the water is gone? Do you stir to see?
That is a good approach, Shawn! You will be able to see any remaining water, if concerned. Following the directions provided, you should be set and not have to worry!
You are amazing I have been trying to cook this for over year with no luck at all! Tried your recipe and it was perfect thank you so much xx
You are sweet! I’m happy you had success, Gillian.
So excited to try this as my quinoa always sucks, haha!
Let me know what you think, Pris!
It worked great, thank you!
It turned out fluffy and I like the suggestion of adding garlic and olive oil. Mine is still a tiny bit bitter, even after rinsing for about 1 minute, but I have a feeling that it might be because of the tricolor quinoa blend I’m using…? It’s not a big deal since it gets mixed with other stuff anyway!
Hi Kate!
I just followed your recipe and it worked! No more soggy quinoa. I tried with half a cup of quinoa first (in case I stuffed it up) but now I’m cooking another batch.
Thank you!
Great to hear, Kellie!
My church is going on the Daniel Fast which is essentially vegan. Here in New England we have just endured record breaking blizzard so I’m thankful for some hot quinoa recipes. I will try with my ladies home group this weekend- thank you!!!
Let me know what you think, Jessica!
I just made plain quinoa to serve with dinner and tried your recipe. Kate-I can’t believe how amazing the quinoa is when I prepared it your way! Fluffy and flavorful with a nice bite to it! I will only cook it this way. I’ll have to try some of the other recipes with the leftovers. Thanks!
Wonderful! Thank you, Karen for your comment and review.
Why are all these “healthy” recipes so high in calories?
Hi Debra – Thank you for the question! The nutrition information is just an estimate, so the calories can vary. You can read more about my nutrition disclaimer here: https://capital-fly.pro/nutrition-disclaimer/%3C/a%3E. As for the number of calories, I typically look at each dish as a standalone meal as to why the calorie count can be higher. Also, I don’t like to focus on numbers of calories for something to be considered healthy. I like to have the mentality of feeding my body with whole foods and nutrients it needs. I hope this helps!
Hi again Kate
In your cooking method you talk about “small amounts of quinoa” with regards to cooking time.
What would you consider a small amount of quinoa to be? I usually prepare 1 cup of quinoa to 2 parts water.
Thanks, John
Hi John! When I talk about small amounts, just a cooking a little for a specific recipe or larger bulk quantities for some on hand. Small amount can be just what you described. :)
Thank you for sharing these yummy wonderful recipes with all of us they look sooo good and I love quinoa but never made it myself until today so I will be certainly giving these recipes a good try! :-)
Thank you! I would love to hear how it went, Helen.
.. I just made quinoa for the first time ever.. Followed your recipe and it was perfect!.. Thank you!
Great, Erin! Thanks for sharing it worked for you.
this is my first time to cook quin i
i let you know how it turn out
like the way you explain
thank you very much
i cook today first time follow your recipe
turned out very good
thank you very much love it
You’re welcome!
Thank you so much Ms. Kate ma’am. Your work is very helpful.
I’m glad you think so!
Thank you so much xx
You’re welcome!
These were such great tips! Thanks for sharing! I’ve been making quinoa for quite a while now, and your method created the best results! This will be my go-to from now on!
Thanks so much for your recipes. Quick query for quinoa recipe. So no lid for pot needed at all in this recipe?
oops sorry just saw that lid comes in at the end. :-)
No lid! :)
Have made Quinoa several times. Thank you for sharing, mine doesn’t always turn out right. Looking forward to trying your recipes.
You’re welcome!
Hi Kate thanks for the easy quinoa recipe. It was perfect! I like quinoa for breakfast mainly but I am definitely going to have to try some of your other recipes. Today I made a banana walnut quinoa bowl and yes it was delicious. I definitely want to try your sun dried tomato, spinach, quinoa recipe sounds like one I would like. Thank you for all your recipes.
Thanks for the comment, Griselda! I really appreciate your star review. And yes, I think it would be a great one to try!
So quick and easy and perfect every time as promised. I love this so much I bookmarked it so I never lose it and have perfect quinoa on hand at all times.
I love that! Thank you, Bel for your comment.
I’ve just moved to Mexico and have already bought and cooked quinoa. The lady of the house I am living in wants to know how to cook it as well so I am sharing your wisdom on Cozumel Island and teaching Mexicans how to make perfect quinoa. They thank you too!
Thanks a million for your information and different suggestion on quinoa recipes
You’re very welcome!
My quinoa finally worked out right! My husband and I both loved it. Thank you!
Hooray! Thanks for sharing, Hannah.
Just tried this after many nights of mushy quinoa, with the simplicity of leaving it uncovered and covering at the end, this tip is life changing. Thanks
Life changing!? :) I’m glad this changed quinoa for the better for you!
I found your website while trying to cook quinoa for the first time. it came out perfect!!! not mushy and perfectly cooked. Thanks a million!
Welcome! And that’s great! Thanks so much for commenting.
Thank you for this! I find myself referring to it over and over, and my quinoa has gotten so much better. I appreciate what you do!
I’m glad its helpful for you, Kim!
hey there! have you ever cooked quinoa in a rice cooker? would love to know if that’s possible!
I prefer the stovetop option. But you can use a rice cooker, if you would like!
I love, “The Grain” its delicious. “Princess”.
Thank you!
Yay! Finally a cooking method that works!!!
Thanks, Ellie!
Thank you for all the receipe
I’m just discover the quinoa
I like it and I know is very good
I will try some of this great recipe
Thank you very much
Leonor
You’re very welcome!
Thank you for a very helpful way to cook quinoa. I thought I didn’t like quinoa because mine always came out gummy and wet. Your method fixes this. Another thing I find helpful with cereals/grains that are washed first – for each cup of dry subtract 1/2 to 1 ounce of water to compensate for the water clinging to the grains.
You’re welcome! I’m glad you find it helpful. I appreciate the review, Mary.
I made the “perfect Quinoa” for dinner today. Your method was a success. Thanks for sharing.
It is a five star recipe for “Perfect Quinoa” recipe.
You’re welcome!
I recently tried Quinoa and love the nutty taste and chewy texture. I am going to cook some of your recipes this weekend.
I want to know if you can cook quinoa and then freeze it for later use?
I haven’t tried that! But, it does keep well frozen in most soups so you could try it. Let me know how it goes!
I want all the quinoa soup recipes you can put out there! Thank you so much for the information :-) this made it easy to make the quinoa, kind of like making rice.
You’re welcome, Alisha! I appreciate your star review.
Thank you Kate – that was the first time I’ve not ended up with a saucepan of unappealing mush! Nicky
Great!! Happy this worked so well for you Nicky.
Sorry – forgot to rate! Nicky
Ha, thanks so much!!
Thank you for the tips. I cooked quinoa for the very first time a few days ago using your method and it turned out perfectly! Thanks
I just want to add that if, no matter what you do, the Quinoa comes out a tad mushy this is what I do.
I dump the pot out onto a roasting pan or some other large flat surface and folk fluff it for a bit which lets the steam out.
I leave it like that for a bit and it tends to bring itself back to perfect state
That’s interesting! It shouldn’t be getting mushy. Are you using twice as much water as quinoa, then cook, uncovered, until the quinoa has absorbed all the water? Following by covering to let steam for 5 minutes following? I’m glad though, you have found something that works for you.
Amazing! It’s a huge hit in my house! Instead of olive oil when frying potatoes I used coconut oil. Thanks for sharing.
You’re welcome, Sue!
I’m glad I came across your blog on quinoa, I’ve been looking for different way to cook with it. Thank you
Welcome, Emma!
Your method has redeemed quinoa for me! I made it your way, with sautéed onion and garlic and it was perfectly nutty and fluffy, and not at all mushy.
Wonderful to hear, Kristen! Thank you for your review.
Thanks,
I tried it. It is good & tasty. Quinoa seeds are very healthy for a body
It has a rich amount of fiber, antioxidants, and iron
we provide the Organic Quinoa Seeds.so let’s start to buy Quinoa seeds at Nourish you
Thanks for sharing, Alena!
Ur recipe is super..thank u loads.
You’re welcome, Loo!
Thank you! I am a fairly experienced with grains but could not get a nice fluffy quinoa – until now! I sautéed a bit of onion and garlic before adding the quinoa and water – worked like a charm.
Win! I’m so happy to hear that, Philip. Thanks so much for your star review.
Hi Kate …. great recipes :-) thanks. I have a question regarding quinoa flavoring. It’s my wife’s birthdathis Saturday and I was going to cook her a dinner. Now she is currently gluten-free, dairy-free, sugar-free, and organic ….. so my idea was a ginger wild-salmon with broccoli over quinoa. However I wanted to flavor the quinoa and cook it in organic vegetable broth and then once ready add chopped green onions, sliced grape tomatoes and chopped sweet onions – then mix in a bit of oregano. Question – will the vegetable broth work to give enough of a unique flavor?
That’s so sweet! It will for sure give it more flavor than water.
PERFECTION. I doubled the recipe and followed it exactly. This is my first time making quinoa so I have no mushy reference, but it was light, airy, fluffy and delicious. I boiled for 18 min and it sat covered off the heat for 10 min. I wish more recipes were like this … give us the simple plain version that’s perfect and from there we can add creativity and imagination. I agree with the other poster, these instructions should be on every box.
Nice recipe ll trying to make today yummy tummy……
Let me know how it went!
I made my quinoa following your directions and for the first time, it tastes like it should! Thank you!
Wonderful, Chris! Thanks so much for your comment and review.
I couldn’t be happier that I found this recipe. Quinoa has always been foreign to me and my little family, but in an effort to add more healthy alternatives I bought some and figured I’d go for it! Mind you, I suck at even cooking rice correctly! But my very first time cooking it, thanks to this recipe… It came out amazing! Super fluffy, not soggy or weird.. Just delicious! Perfect! I served it with zucchini that I sauteed with thyme, onions and a can of diced tomatoes as a side dish to tilapia. Felt so good to feed my family a delicious and healthy meal. Thank you so much for this recipe. If you are looking for your technique to cook quinoa, look no further! This is it! Thank you thank you thank you! :)
Hooray! I’m glad the method worked so well for you.
Dear Kate!
I had quinoa with me for the longest time but it turned clumpy everytime!
This time it turned out excellent, fluffy!
This changed my view about quinoa and now I look forward to use it as often as I wanted.
Thanx a ton!
Awesome recipe.
I’m so happy to hear that! Thanks for your review, Neha.
Thanks for sharing your recipes! Quinoa turned out perfect just like you said it would! We added sweet peppers, a jalapeño, sliced carrots and some seasonings. Beautiful and delicious.
Thank you, Jenny!
Excellent results! I’ve had trouble making quinoa before trying this recipe. Thank you!
Love to hear this method works for you, Barb! Thanks for letting me know. I appreciate your comment and review.