Fluffy Quinoa with a Twist 🍋✨

Nutty, light, and never mushy—your new favorite base for bowls, salads, or mix-and-match meals.

Quinoa has earned its place as a go-to grain, but traditional methods often leave it soggy or bland. This version keeps it fluffy and flavorful—using less water and a simple steam. Want more texture? Try the optional oven-bake method to dry it out or add a light crunch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa (rinsed and drained)

• 1¼ cups bone broth or water (bone broth adds extra flavor + protein)

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• Optional: zest of ½ lemon, 1–2 teaspoons olive oil or ghee

Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa
Place quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water for 30 seconds to remove bitterness.

2. Add to pot
Combine rinsed quinoa, 1¼ cups bone broth or water, and sea salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil.

3. Simmer gently
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.

4. Steam off the heat
Turn off the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This steams the quinoa and helps it fluff up perfectly.

5. Fluff + (Optional) Bake
Fluff with a fork. Then, if you want a drier or slightly crispy texture:

• Mix quinoa with a drizzle of olive oil

• Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet

• Bake at 425°F for 5–15 minutes, stirring once. Less time for dry/fluffy, more for golden/crunchy edges.

Tips & Add-Ons

• Flavor boost: Add lemon zest or fresh herbs like parsley or mint

• Mix with: roasted chickpeas, asparagus, or sautéed greens

• Top with: chopped nuts (like almonds or pistachios), crumbled feta, or avocado

• Pairs well with: baked chicken, tofu, salmon, or black beans

• Make it Mediterranean, mix in:
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup spinach or arugula

This is quinoa made your way—fluffy, toasty, and endlessly versatile. Perfect for prepping once and mixing into meals all week.