Lemon Herb Quinoa
This bright and fluffy lemon herb quinoa is a vibrant, wholesome side dish that pairs effortlessly with almost any main course.
Ingredients
- •1 cup white quinoa, thoroughly rinsed (170g)
- •2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (480ml)
- •2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- •1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
- •3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- •1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (20g)
- •1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint (10g)
- •1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives or green onions (15g)
- •1 small clove garlic, minced
- •1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- •1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Place the rinsed quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well to remove any excess water.
- 2
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the quinoa, and toast it gently for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly until it smells slightly nutty.
- 3
Carefully pour in the broth and add 1/4 teaspoon of the salt, bringing the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- 4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer undisturbed for 15 minutes.
- 5
Remove the saucepan from the heat source and leave it covered to steam for an additional 10 minutes.
- 6
While the quinoa rests, whisk together the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt and black pepper in a small bowl.
- 7
Remove the lid from the quinoa and fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- 8
Pour the lemon dressing, chopped parsley, mint, and chives directly over the warm quinoa.
- 9
Toss everything gently until the herbs and dressing are evenly distributed throughout the grains.
💡 Chef tips
- Rinsing the quinoa thoroughly before cooking removes its natural bitter coating known as saponin.
- You can make this dish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, adding the fresh herbs just before serving for the best color.
- Feel free to toss in crumbled feta cheese, toasted almonds, or diced cucumbers to turn this side dish into a more filling grain salad.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished quinoa should be light, fluffy, and perfectly separated, with a bright, zesty aroma and a refreshing herbal finish.