How to Cook Perfectly Fluffy Quinoa (Every Single Time)

Learn how to cook quinoa to fluffy perfection, and you’ll open the door to a world of wholesome, delicious recipes that call for this nutrient-rich seed (that’s right, it’s a seed!) If you can cook rice, you can cook quinoa. And if you can’t cook rice …

Learn how to cook quinoa to fluffy perfection, and you'll open the door to a world of wholesome, delicious recipes that call for this nutrient-rich seed (that's right, it's a seed!) If you can cook rice, you can cook quinoa. And if you can't cook rice but can follow simple step-by-step instructions, you're just a few simple steps away from whipping up a pot of quinoa that's as welcome in a salad or soup as it is in cookies, meatballs, or burgers.

What is Quinoa?

Quinoa is a seed (or pseudo-cereal) native to the Andes Mountains. It's closely related to amaranth, and contains all nine amino acids, which makes it a complete food on its own. While you can absolutely enjoy quinoa on its own, it takes very well to any savory preparation that calls for whole grains like bulgur, brown rice, buckwheat, and farro. Quinoa can also be added to sweet recipes like cookies and cakes, and made into sweet or savory porridge for a rib-sticking breakfast.

Read More >>

Butternut Squash & Miso Brussels Sprouts Nourish Bowl

Say hello to the best thing to hit your taste buds this fall! But no, seriously. Hello, incredibly flavorful nourish bowl!
The best news? When you use already-cooked grains, this recipe comes together in about 30 minutes! 
When contemplating …

Butternut Squash & Miso Brussels Sprouts Nourish Bowl

Say hello to the best thing to hit your taste buds this fall! But no, seriously. Hello, incredibly flavorful nourish bowl!

The best news? When you use already-cooked grains, this recipe comes together in about 30 minutes

When contemplating the flavors for this fall-themed Buddha bowl concept, I couldn’t shake the idea of grains topped with roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with tahini sauce.

Butternut Squash & Miso Brussels Sprouts Nourish Bowl from Minimalist Baker →

Bruschetta Quinoa Zucchini Boats.

These are just about the cutest zucchini boats I’ve ever seen!  Oh hi! I’m back with another stuffed squash for you today. I know that I just shared a spaghetti squash on Monday but this is totally different and just as delish. Perhaps I should make this stuffed squash week?  Both recipes are so satisfying […]

The post Bruschetta Quinoa Zucchini Boats. appeared first on How Sweet Eats.

These are just about the cutest zucchini boats I’ve ever seen! 

bruschetta quinoa zucchini boats

Oh hi! I’m back with another stuffed squash for you today. I know that I just shared a spaghetti squash on Monday but this is totally different and just as delish. Perhaps I should make this stuffed squash week? 

Both recipes are so satisfying and perfect meatless meals!

zucchini drizzled with balsamic glaze

It’s crazy that it’s the last day of September! Do you have any garden tomatoes or zucchini left? If so, this is the perfect recipe to use them up.

And if you don’t have any, this is a great recipe to use all year round because it really allows the tomatoes and zucchini to get super flavorful when they are out of season! 

tomatoes, basil, onion, garlic in a bowl

This recipe is based off a hello fresh one that my friend told me about. It sounded so good! Some sort of bruschetta stuffed zucchini that just sounded incredible to me. She described it as hearty and perfect for a weeknight meal – and also completely customizable. If you want to add meat or beans to this, you totally can.

If you want to serve it as a main dish or side dish, you can do that too. It’s so darn versatile!

quinoa bruschetta in a bowl

I used the bruschetta base from my bruschetta chicken recipe. Lots of tomatoes, a little onion and garlic, some herbs and olive oil. Once that is mixed together, you stir it into quinoa creating the most delicious bruschetta-y flavored grain.

I love this quinoa mix so much that I like to use it as a regular old side dish.

It’s that good! 

bruschetta quinoa zucchini boats before baking

Before stuffing the zucchini with the quinoa mix, I drizzle balsamic glaze all over the scooped out squash. Oh my gosh, this adds SUCH an incredible layer of flavor that is kind of hidden. It’s really takes everything up a notch. 

bruschetta quinoa zucchini boats

Once the zucchini is stuffed with the bruschetta quinoa, I like to stuff a little bit of fresh mozzarella inside for cheesy meltiness. It’s perfect.

bruschetta quinoa zucchini boats

After baking, I can’t even explain the incredible texture this zucchini boat takes on. The top layer of the quinoa becomes a bit crisp in the oven. It’s delightful and if you’re a crunch person like I am, you will looooovvvvve it.

Plus, you can also do an extra drizzle of balsamic!

bruschetta quinoa zucchini boats

I’m not sure I can even explain how much we LOVE this meal. It’s fairly simple but ridiculously flavorful at the same time and is a great way to get in extra veggies too. Basically, a huge win!

bruschetta quinoa zucchini boats

Bruschetta Quinoa Zucchini Boats

Print

Bruschetta Quinoa Zucchini Boats

These bruschetta quinoa zucchini boats are a flavorful meatless meal that will please everyone! Loaded with flavor and super satisfying.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 people
Author How Sweet Eats

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups cooked quinoa
  • 1 pint tomatoes, halved or quartered
  • 1 shallot, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup finely grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for sprinkling
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped herbs, like basil or parsley, plus more for sprinkling
  • kosher salt and pepper
  • 4 medium zucchini, sliced in half lengthwise
  • balsamic glaze, for drizzling
  • 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, chopped

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
  • In a bowl, stir together the cooked quinoa, tomatoes, shallot, garlic, parmesan, olive oil, herbs and a big pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until combined. Taste and season more if needed. You really want to season each layer of this (the zucchini and the quinoa!).
  • Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Place them on a baking sheet. Scoop out the center using a spoon to create a well. You can discard this zucchini or stir it into the quinoa if you don’t want to waste it.
  • Sprinkle each zucchini boat with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Drizzle each with balsamic glaze. Scoop the quinoa mixture into the center of the zucchini and repeat with each one. Top each boat with a few cubes of fresh mozzarella.
  • Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and bubbly. Remove and sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese and herbs. Drizzle with more balsamic glaze if you’d like. Serve immediately.

bruschetta quinoa zucchini boats

Okay now maybe time for a cookie!

The post Bruschetta Quinoa Zucchini Boats. appeared first on How Sweet Eats.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Cookies

These deeply rich and gooey chocolate cookies are studded with peanut butter and dark chocolate chips, with a crispy coating that makes for a perfect crunchy finish. When it comes to cookies, the closer the cookie comes to cookie dough, the better I say. And these jumbo sized cookies are just that, with gooey middles […]

These deeply rich and gooey chocolate cookies are studded with peanut butter and dark chocolate chips, with a crispy coating that makes for a perfect crunchy finish.

When it comes to cookies, the closer the cookie comes to cookie dough, the better I say. And these jumbo sized cookies are just that, with gooey middles and melty pockets of chocolate and peanut butter, all wrapped in a delightful coating of puffed quinoa that makes for a unique textural experience you’ll simply adore.

Freshly baked Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Cookies on a cooling rack

When a chocolate craving hits… only something ultra rich will truly satiate me. I often turn to my favorite brownies, but now that I’ve had these cookies, well, let’s just say my allegiance may be changing.

I mean, just looking at these cookies has me drooling. They’re sweet and salty. Gooey and crunchy. Dreamy dark chocolate and creamy peanut butter all rolled into one giant cookie.

Let me just warn you now, these cookies are rich. Like Warren Buffet rich. So you best have a tall glass of milk handy… and maybe a friend to share the goods (half of one of these monsters is more than satisfying).

Stack of cookies, one broken in half to show the gooey center and melty peanut butter chips

I’ve seen similar thick and gooey cookies from the Levain bakery in New York City, and there are plenty of copycat recipes out there. This is not one of them, namely because I’ve never tried the real thing so who am I to try to replicate it?

That said, the cookies do look rather similar, with thick, rich chocolate middles and ample peanut butter chips that come out of the oven all lovely and molten (and indeed, I shouldn’t have to tell you that these cookies are at their best when they are warm).

I don’t think Levain has the crispy bits though, which is a darn shame because it makes these cookies a true textural delight – both to behold and then to devour.

(more…)

Easy Quinoa Sweet Potato Chili (30 mins)

If you want to enjoy a hearty, meatless chili that is ready in under 30 minutes, try this flavorful, filling, and delicious quinoa sweet potato chili. This is a quick and easy combination that you can make for lunch or dinner even on busy weekdays. Apa…

If you want to enjoy a hearty, meatless chili that is ready in under 30 minutes, try this flavorful, filling, and delicious quinoa sweet potato chili. This is a quick and easy combination that you can make for lunch or dinner even on busy weekdays. Apart from this vegan chili with beans and millet recipe,...

Read More

The post Easy Quinoa Sweet Potato Chili (30 mins) appeared first on My Pure Plants.

Quinoa Tabbouleh

Quinoa tabbouleh is always a hit, starring lemon and fresh herbs! This spin on the classic Middle Eastern salad is an easy healthy side dish. Are you a tabbouleh fan? This Middle Eastern salad is one of the tastiest salads there is. There’s something about the combination of herbaceous parsley, bright lemon and crunchy tomatoes and cucumber that makes magic. Traditional tabbouleh is made with bulgur wheat, a quick cooking whole grain. But seeing as quinoa is the grain of the moment…why not try it with quinoa? Turns out it works perfectly, making a delicious gluten free spin on this classic salad. What is tabbouleh? Tabbouleh is a Middle Eastern salad that’s made with fresh parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, cucumbers, and seasoned with lemon juice and olive oil. Sometimes spelled tabouli or tabbouli, it’s a staple in Greek, Lebanese and Syrian cuisine. You’ll often see it alongside hummus and baba ganoush in a mezze platter. The fresh brightness of the lemon and parsley are the perfect contrast to more savory and heavy flavors. There is no “exact” science on how to make tabbouleh because every cook has their own recipe. We researched the traditional ingredients in tabouli and used those […]

A Couple Cooks – Healthy, Whole Food, & Vegetarian Recipes

Quinoa tabbouleh is always a hit, starring lemon and fresh herbs! This spin on the classic Middle Eastern salad is an easy healthy side dish.

Quinoa tabbouleh

Are you a tabbouleh fan? This Middle Eastern salad is one of the tastiest salads there is. There’s something about the combination of herbaceous parsley, bright lemon and crunchy tomatoes and cucumber that makes magic. Traditional tabbouleh is made with bulgur wheat, a quick cooking whole grain. But seeing as quinoa is the grain of the moment…why not try it with quinoa? Turns out it works perfectly, making a delicious gluten free spin on this classic salad.

What is tabbouleh?

Tabbouleh is a Middle Eastern salad that’s made with fresh parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, cucumbers, and seasoned with lemon juice and olive oil. Sometimes spelled tabouli or tabbouli, it’s a staple in Greek, Lebanese and Syrian cuisine. You’ll often see it alongside hummus and baba ganoush in a mezze platter. The fresh brightness of the lemon and parsley are the perfect contrast to more savory and heavy flavors.

There is no “exact” science on how to make tabbouleh because every cook has their own recipe. We researched the traditional ingredients in tabouli and used those as a basic for this quinoa version. The first time Alex and I had tabbouleh was back when we first met, at a Greek restaurant in our college town. I remember falling instantly in love with the herbaceous flavor of tabbouleh. (I fell in love with Alex much later!)

How to make quinoa tabbouleh

Ingredients in quinoa tabbouleh

This quinoa tabbouleh recipe is a spin on a traditional tabbouleh using quinoa instead of bulgur wheat! Using quinoa makes this into a gluten-free salad: and you also get all the nutritional benefits of quinoa. The advantage of bulgur wheat is that all you need to do is let it stand in boiling water for 10 minutes. The quinoa cooking process takes just a little longer! But it’s 100% worth the time. Combine the quinoa with these traditional tabbouleh ingredients to make a standout salad:

  • Quinoa
  • Curly parsley (that’s right: see below!)
  • Mint
  • Green onions
  • Tomatoes
  • English cucumber
  • Lemon juice
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper

As a note: some tabbouleh recipes are almost 2/3 parsley with only a bit of the grain. Others are all whole grain and only a little bit of the herb. This quinoa tabbouleh recipe falls in the middle. We love parsley-forward tabbouleh recipes, but also wanted to have a good amount of quinoa. Speaking of parsley…

Curly parsley vs Italian parsley: which to use in tabbouleh?

There are two main types of parsley: curly and Italian parsley (also called “flat leaf”). The difference? Curly parsley has very curly leaves and tastes grassy; Italian parsley has leaves that are flat like cilantro and tastes bright and herbaceous. We used to adhere to the mantra that curly parsley is used only as decoration, not in cooking. Only use Italian parsley in your cooking, we’d say! But guess what: the best parsley to use in tabbouleh is curly parsley.

Why? Curly parsley has more texture. When you chop it, it remains light and fluffy, versus Italian parsley that is perfectly flat and can become soggy. Also: the flavor tastes like what you expect from a Greek or Lebanese restaurant. So lesson learned: use curly parsley!

You’ll need to buy quite a lot of parsley for this recipe. It takes a while to chop 2 cups of parsley: but never fear! All the work is worth it. You can use this How to Cut Cilantro video as a guide.

Curly parsley

Make the quinoa in advance if you have time

Cooking quinoa for the quinoa tabbouleh takes about 25 minutes total. You can cook it while you chop the veggies: but the easiest way to do it is cooking it in advance! Here’s why:

  • Making the quinoa in advance is helpful. You don’t want hot quinoa for tabbouleh, you need quinoa that’s room temperature or cold. Why? Right after you cook it, quinoa retains a lot of moisture. You’ll want the grains to dry out a bit so they don’t stick together. Also, the salad is served room temperature. So, the easiest way to make this salad is to cook the quinoa in advance and refrigerate.
  • Here’s a quick tip for cooling quinoa…fast! If you don’t think ahead, you can use this tip for cooling quinoa quickly. Spread it in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop it in the freezer for a few minutes. This allows the steam to dissipate and makes the cooling much faster than plopping it in a bowl.

How to make quinoa tabbouleh…a few more tips!

Once you’ve cooked the quinoa, tabbouleh is a breeze to whip up! The basic method for this recipe is very easy: cook quinoa, chop veggies, add dressing. But there are a few more things to note:

  • Chop the vegetables very finely. You’ll want the veggies to integrate into the texture of the salad well, so chop them as finely as you can.
  • Core and seed the tomatoes. Another tip for reducing moisture is coring and seeding the tomatoes when you chop them. This removes any soggy seeds from the salad. For more, go to How to Cut Tomatoes.
Quinoa tabbouleh

Storage info

Once you’ve mixed up a batch of this quinoa tabbouleh, you can use it as a healthy side dish for lunch and dinner recipes throughout the week! It stores refrigerated for about 3 to 4 days, and holds up pretty well.

How to serve quinoa tabbouleh

Tabbouleh is a fantastic healthy and easy side dish or appetizer for all sorts of meals. Some of our grain salad recipes can double as a main dish, but here we’d recommend keeping it as a side dish. It almost feels like a condiment like an Indian raita: it’s lovely to mix into the flavors already on your plate to bring a fresh brightness. Here are some ways we’d serve it!

This quinoa tabbouleh recipe is…

Vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free and gluten-free.

Print
Quinoa tabbouleh

Quinoa Tabbouleh


1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (5 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 to 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Quinoa tabbouleh is always a hit, starring lemon and fresh herbs! This spin on the classic Middle Eastern salad is an easy healthy side dish. 


Ingredients

  • 1 cup dry quinoa
  • 2 cups finely chopped curly parsley (2 bunches)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
  • 3 green onions
  • 2 medium tomatoes, seeded and finely chopped (1 cup)
  • 1/2 English cucumber (1 cup finely chopped)
  • 6 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Fresh ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Make the quinoa: Rinse the quinoa using a fine mesh strainer, then drain it completely. Place it in a saucepan with 2 cups water and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer where the water is just bubbling for about 17 to 20 minutes, until the water has been completely absorbed. (Check by pulling back the quinoa with a fork to see if water remains.) Turn off the heat and let sit with the lid on to steam for 5 minutes, then fluff the quinoa with a fork. 
  2. Cool the quinoa to room temperature: To do this quickly, dump the quinoa onto a baking sheet and spread it in an even layer. Pop it in the freezer for 2 to 3 minutes until cooled to room temperature. Or, you can make the quinoa in advance and let it sit at room temp or refrigerate until serving (it cools fastest spread on a baking sheet).
  3. Meanwhile, chop the vegetables: Finely chop the parsley and mint. Thinly slice the green onions. Finely chop the tomato, removing the core and seeds. Finely chop the cucumber (if you’re using a standard cucumber and not English cucumber, remove the seeds too.)
  4. Add the dressing: Juice the lemon and whisk it together with the olive oil. In a large bowl, toss the quinoa and vegetables with the dressing, kosher salt and pepper. Taste and adjust flavors as necessary. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 3 to 4 days.

  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Salad
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern inspired

Keywords: Quinoa tabbouleh

A Couple Cooks - Healthy, Whole Food, & Vegetarian Recipes

Honeycrisp Quinoa Salad with Kale and Pistachios.

Nothing beats this honeycrisp quinoa salad on a Monday. And it’s no secret that I love a good september salad!  Because kale, honeycrisps, and anything else I can grab to celebrate the seasons – the end of summer and start of fall –  are perfect together in one big bowl.  Years ago I made this […]

The post Honeycrisp Quinoa Salad with Kale and Pistachios. appeared first on How Sweet Eats.

Nothing beats this honeycrisp quinoa salad on a Monday.

honeycrisp quinoa salad with kale and pistachios

And it’s no secret that I love a good september salad! 

kale with quinoa and pistachios

Because kale, honeycrisps, and anything else I can grab to celebrate the seasons – the end of summer and start of fall –  are perfect together in one big bowl. 

chopped apples and feta

Years ago I made this harvest honey crisp salad. The cinnamon shallot vinaigrette is the star of the show in this one! And, the double nuts. 

Then, I made a september kale salad, with figs and apples and pancetta and goat cheese. All sounds incredible right? That’s topped off with a maple cider vinaigrette and it deeeelish.

See? I’m just a little into september salads…

honeycrisp quinoa salad with kale and pistachios

For today’s salad, I’m keeping the kale and honeycrisps, but adding in some quinoa for satiety, some feta cubes, pistachios for savory, buttery crunch and dried tart cherries. 

Oh my word. This is heaven. It has EVERYTHING.

And then! It’s all drizzled with an apple cider vinaigrette. If you love a salty+sweet combo, you will adore this. It’s amazing. 

Give me all the apple cider things!

apple cider dressing

The base is tuscan kale, which is my absolute favorite for salads. You can use curly green too, of course. When the kale is massaged (yes, it’s massaged!) with the dressing, it becomes tender and chewy, in a really good way. 

Then we have the crunch from the nuts. The big juicy chunks of apple. The feta cubes which are tangy and cheesy and lovely. Then sweet chewiness from the cherries.

honeycrisp quinoa salad with kale and pistachios

A salad like this is the perfect way to transition from summer to fall. It’s refreshing enough to hit the spot on warm late summer nights, but adds enough flavor to get you excited for autumn produce. 

Let it be dinner tonight!

honeycrisp quinoa salad with kale and pistachios

Honeycrisp Quinoa Salad with Kale and Pistachios

Print

Honeycrisp Quinoa Salad with Kale and Pistachios

This honeycrisp quinoa salad is made with kale, feta, pistachios, dried cherries and an incredible apple cider vinaigrette.
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 people
Author How Sweet Eats

Ingredients

  • ½ cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 large bunch lacinato kale, leaves removed from stems (you want 4 to 6 cups)
  • 2 honey crisp apples cubed
  • 6 ounces feta cheese cubed
  • cup dried tart cherries
  • ¼ cup chopped roasted pistachios

apple cider vinaigrette

  • cup apple cider
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, finely minced or pressed
  • pinch of salt and pepper
  • pinch of freshly ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  • This is a great dish to use up leftover quinoa, but if you don’t have it made, start with that! Make a batch of quinoa first and while it cooks (it will take about 15 minutes), chop your other ingredients.
  • Chop the kale and place it in a bowl. Drizzle it with about 2 tablespoons of the apple cider vinaigrette and massage the kale with your hands for 1 to 2 minutes. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes.
  • If you are using just-cooked quinoa (so it's warm), you can put it over the kale to wilt it a bit. If it's cold or room temp, that is fine too. Once the kale has rested, add in the quinoa, apples, feta, pistachios and cherries. Toss well and drizzle on more of the dressing. Serve!
  • This salad stays surprisingly well overnight - the apples may slightly brown a bit, but if you seal it in a container, the leftovers are great.

apple cider vinaigrette

  • Whisk together the apple cider, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Whisk constantly while streaming in the olive oil. This dressing stays great sealed in the fridge for a few days.

honeycrisp quinoa salad with kale and pistachios

Bite of perfection, right there!

The post Honeycrisp Quinoa Salad with Kale and Pistachios. appeared first on How Sweet Eats.

Easy Grain Bowl

Here’s how to make a grain bowl! Pair a whole grain, protein and veggies with this amazing tahini sauce to make a healthy, fast and easy meal. Want to make a grain bowl? Bowl meals are so popular these days, and often they’re on our table because it’s one of the easiest ways to turn random ingredients into a healthy dinner! But here’s the thing: you can’t just throw anything into a bowl. A good grain bowl has to be well-seasoned, and play up contrasts in color, texture and flavor. It’s got to have enough protein to keep you full, and a great sauce to bring it all together. Yes, there are rules to grain bowls! (Kind of.) We’ll talk you through a few steps, and then show you our favorite grain bowl that makes a fast and easy dinner in 30 minutes. How to make a grain bowl A good grain bowl has four main elements, and plays up the contrasts between these ingredients. If you’d like, you can top with some extras (see below). A grain bowl features these major elements: Whole grain: quinoa, rice, farro, bulgur wheat, millet, freekah, Protein: chickpeas, black beans, white beans, tofu, tempeh, […]

A Couple Cooks – Healthy, Whole Food, & Vegetarian Recipes

Here’s how to make a grain bowl! Pair a whole grain, protein and veggies with this amazing tahini sauce to make a healthy, fast and easy meal.

Grain Bowl

Want to make a grain bowl? Bowl meals are so popular these days, and often they’re on our table because it’s one of the easiest ways to turn random ingredients into a healthy dinner! But here’s the thing: you can’t just throw anything into a bowl. A good grain bowl has to be well-seasoned, and play up contrasts in color, texture and flavor. It’s got to have enough protein to keep you full, and a great sauce to bring it all together. Yes, there are rules to grain bowls! (Kind of.) We’ll talk you through a few steps, and then show you our favorite grain bowl that makes a fast and easy dinner in 30 minutes.

How to make a grain bowl

A good grain bowl has four main elements, and plays up the contrasts between these ingredients. If you’d like, you can top with some extras (see below). A grain bowl features these major elements:

How to make a grain bowl

Accentuate contrasts in flavor, texture and color

When you choose the elements for your grain bowl, you’ll have to keep contrasts in mind! Think about textures, colors, and flavors as you pick out each of the elements. You don’t want a bowl that’s all mushy, drab, or all the same flavor profile. Here are a few notes:

  • Texture contrasts: Whole grains are fluffy, beans and chickpeas can be soft. Think about adding a crunch with raw veggies, needs or seeds.
  • Color contrasts: We eat with our eyes! No one wants a brown or yellow bowl. Add colorful fresh or cooked veggies to round out the bowl! The more colors, the better.
  • Flavor contrasts: Using several components naturally makes flavor contrasts. Think about contrasts in elements that are savory, naturally sweet, tangy, salty, and even lightly bitter.

Use a theme to tie the grain bowl together

Using a vague theme can be helpful for tying a grain bowl together. It’s not necessary, but using flavors that go from a specific cuisine can make for harmony in the bowl! Here are a few ideas:

  • Mediterranean style: That’s the style of this easy grain bowl! It’s got Mediterranean or Greek style elements like tahini sauce, chickpeas, cucumber and tomatoes.
  • Mexican style: Try a bowl like this Rice Bowl with rice, black beans, and cilantro sauce.
  • Hawaiian style: Go for a Poke Bowl vibe (or Vegan Poke Bowl).
  • Moroccan style: Roast up a bunch of veggies for a Roasted Vegetable Bowl with freekah and lemon yogurt sauce.
  • Japanese style: Try a Sushi Bowl with sushi rice, ahi tuna, and healthy veggies.
Grain bowl

Make this easy grain bowl…in 30 minutes!

This easy grain bowl is Mediterranean-inspired and takes just 30 minutes to make into a healthy lunch or dinner! Because some grains can take longer to cook, this concept can often take longer than 30 minutes if you make them all at once. This recipe is quick and easy! Make it even faster with our make-ahead tips below. Here are the elements that make this grain bowl so quick:

  • Easy chickpeas: These Easy Canned Chickpeas are our trick on how to make a bland can of beans taste great in just 5 minutes! We use this trick all the time in the kitchen.
  • Seasoned quinoa: This Perfect Seasoned Quinoa is another trick to make quinoa taste fantastic. Put on a pot and make the rest of your components.
  • Mediterranean-style veggies: Grab your tomatoes, cucumber, and some Kalamata olives if you’d like.
  • Tahini sauce: This Tahini Sauce works for lots of different bowls: and it’s perfect for this one with a Mediterranean flair.
Mediterranean quinoa bowl

Make ahead tips & meal prep ideas

Want to make a grain bowl ahead of time? Great! Because it can take a while to prepare all the components. To make the fastest healthy dinner or lunch, think about doing a few things in advance. Here are a few ideas:

  • Cook the grain in advance. Refrigerate until serving. Reheat on the stovetop lightly, or just serve it at room temperature. Rice can dry out, so when you reheat it on the stovetop, add a splash of water and then cover it so it can steam.
  • Cook the protein in advance. If you’re making a bowl with chicken, fish, or tofu, you can cook that in advance and refrigerate until serving.
  • Use a grain bowl to use up leftovers! The best part about bowl meals? They’re great for leftovers. Use the bowl concept to eat up leftover items you’ve cooked throughout the week.

Let us know how you enjoy this grain bowl in the comments below! And here are 10 more ideas to get your wheels turning.

Variations: 10 more grain bowl recipes

Here are more of our favorite grain bowl ideas! There are so many to choose from: and you can mix and match the grains and components in each.

This grain bowl recipe is…

Vegetarian, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free, and gluten-free.

Print
Grain Bowl

Easy Grain Bowl


1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (7 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Here’s how to make a grain bowl! Pair a whole grain, protein and veggies with this amazing tahini sauce to make a healthy, fast and easy meal.


Ingredients

For the grain

For the grain bowl

  • 2 15-ounce can chickpeas*
  • 2 small garlic cloves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 recipe Tahini Sauce
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  • 1 English cucumber
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (optional)
  • 1/4 red onion

Instructions

  1. Make the grain: Go to Seasoned Quinoa to make the quinoa, or follow the other whole grain recipes listed above. The quinoa takes about 25 minutes total, so use the cook time to prepare the remaining ingredients.
  2. Make the chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas. Mince the garlic. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but before it browns. Add the chickpeas, smoked paprika, salt, and several grinds of black pepper. Cook 2 minutes until warmed through.
  3. Make the sauce: Make the Tahini Sauce. (Or, try Lemon Dill Sauce or Creamy Cilantro Sauce.)
  4. Prep the veggies: Slice the tomatoes in half. Slice the cucumber. Slice the red onion.
  5. Assemble the bowls: Place the quinoa and chickpeas in the bowl. Add the fresh veggies and drizzle with the sauce.

Notes

*This makes a solid 4 to 6 servings of protein. If you’re cooking for 1 or 2, make half this recipe (or go to Easy Canned Chickpeas.)

  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Grain Bowl, How to make a grain bowl

A Couple Cooks - Healthy, Whole Food, & Vegetarian Recipes

Weeknight One Pot Salsa Chicken Quinoa.

Basically obsessed with this weeknight salsa chicken quinoa. It’s loaded with flavor, is made in one pot and super easy to throw together as we get back into the school routine. Who else feels like you’ve been thrown back a decade with this quinoa bake? Me me me!  No, but really. After making this recipe, […]

The post Weeknight One Pot Salsa Chicken Quinoa. appeared first on How Sweet Eats.

Basically obsessed with this weeknight salsa chicken quinoa.

one pot salsa chicken quinoa topped with avocado pico de gallo

It’s loaded with flavor, is made in one pot and super easy to throw together as we get back into the school routine.

sautéed onions, peppers and chicken

Who else feels like you’ve been thrown back a decade with this quinoa bake? Me me me! 

No, but really. After making this recipe, it gave me major blogs-back-in-2008 vibes. But that doesn’t make it any less delicious! And would it really be so bad to go back a decade right now…

My nostalgia is showing.

quinoa, corn, chicken, beans and salsa

Here’s why I love it!

First, the flavor is obviously incredible.

Second, it’s customizable – use whatever you love, leave out what you don’t, add your favorite toppings.

I really like using rotisserie chicken for this, but if you have extra chicken leftover, chop it up and add it in. Or leave it out entirely. You can use pinto beans instead of black beans, or just use both. You can use a spicy salsa or a mild version – even a salsa verde.

avocado pico de gallo

Right now, since corn is still in season and super sweet and crisp, I love to use it sliced straight off the cob. But I’m showing frozen here too (and on instagram!) because it’s a super easy swap.

Another reason I love it? Well, it looks quite underwhelming right after the quinoa cooks, but as soon as you throw on your toppings, it’s GAME ON.

Avocados, more salsa, sour cream or yogurt, cotija cheese, quick pico, crushed tortilla chips. The options are endless. 

You can even use chips to scoop this up and eat. Ha! 

one pot salsa chicken quinoa

Finally, you can use another grain! Whichever you choice, whether it’s rice or something like barley or whatever – I’d follow this instructions on the package when it comes to how much liquid to add and how long to cook it. Plus, I’d pick something that cooks quickly rather than a long grain 40 minute rice – you know? 

It is the PERFECT weeknight meal!

one pot salsa chicken quinoa topped with avocado pico de gallo and sour cream

Oh oh oh and?! The leftovers are so incredible too. They taste just as good if not better than right after making. 

This is one of those meals where you’re actually EXCITED about the leftovers and look forward to them. Those are my favorite.

one pot salsa chicken quinoa topped with avocado pico de gallo

I like to make an avocado pico for the top. It adds SO much – again, while being super simple.

Dinner couldn’t be easier!

one pot salsa chicken quinoa topped with avocado pico de gallo

One Pot Salsa Chicken Quinoa

Print

Weeknight One Pot Salsa Chicken Quinoa

This salsa chicken quinoa is made in one pot and is perfect for a weeknight meal! Top with avocado pico de gallo, lime and sour cream.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 people
Author How Sweet Eats

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 large or 2 small bell peppers, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 ½ cups shredded or chopped cooked chicken
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 (14 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen works)
  • 1 cup mild or medium salsa (or hot, if you want!)
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
  • toppings: sliced green onions, sour cream, cotija cheese, more salsa
  • lime wedges, for spritzing

avocado pico

  • 2 avocados, cubed
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes
  • ¼ cup diced red onion
  • ½ cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 limes, freshly juiced
  • salt and pepper

Instructions

  • Heat the olive oil in large skillet over medium-low heat. Add in the onion, peppers, and garlic with a bit pinch of salt and pepper and stir. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables have softened. Stir in the shredded chicken. Add in the paprika, chili powder and cumin with one more pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes to activate the spices.
  • Add the quinoa, beans, corn, salsa and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce it to a simmer and cover it. Cook for 15 minutes, then remove the lid and stir. If the liquid hasn’t fully absorbed yet, continue to cook for another 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the cheese. Serve the quinoa and top with the avocado pico, such as sour cream or yogurt, green onions, lime and cotija cheese. Spritz with a wedge of lime. Leftovers stay great in the fridge!

avocado pico de gallo

  • Combine everything in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. This stays okay sealed in the fridge overnight, but the avocado will brown a bit. To serve, make it right before eating.

one pot salsa chicken quinoa topped with avocado pico de gallo

Any excuse for some chips!

The post Weeknight One Pot Salsa Chicken Quinoa. appeared first on How Sweet Eats.

Pizza Quinoa Stuffed Portabella Mushrooms

This Pizza Quinoa Stuffed Portabella Mushrooms recipe is perfect for Meatless Monday. Portabella mushrooms are stuffed with a pizza-flavored quinoa filling. Website Problems Were you trying to find something on my blog on Saturday and some strange,…

Pizza Quinoa Stuffed Portabella Mushrooms Recipe
This Pizza Quinoa Stuffed Portabella Mushrooms recipe is perfect for Meatless Monday. Portabella mushrooms are stuffed with a pizza-flavored quinoa filling. Website Problems Were you trying to find something on my blog on Saturday and some strange, completely different site was on here instead?