How to Cook Quinoa
A simple stovetop method for fluffy, tender quinoa that is ready to use in bowls, salads, sides, and meal prep.
Prep 5 min · Cook 20 min · Total 35 min · Makes about 3 cups
Ingredients
- Salt
- Water
Directions
Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan over high heat. Stir in the quinoa, salt, and any optional aromatics. Lower the heat to medium, keeping the liquid at a strong simmer, and cook for 12-15 minutes, until the quinoa tastes tender but still pleasantly chewy and the grains look translucent. The little white curls should be visible, too. Pour the quinoa into a fine-mesh strainer and drain it very well. Return it to the saucepan, take the pan off the heat, drape a clean dishtowel over the top, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes so the quinoa can finish steaming. Fluff with a fork, taste, add more salt if it needs it, and serve.