Fluffy, nutty, and perfectly cooked every time—try this Microwave Quinoa for an easy-to-prep dish that’s sure to satisfy!
When the quinoa craze first started several years ago, I truly couldn’t get enough! I started making big batches of quinoa over the weekend to enjoy with my meals throughout the work week. I was so excited about the versatility of this classic grain—I served it as a side dish, on top of my salads, and as the base for many a grain bowl. Imagine my surprise when I finally discovered that it was possible to prepare quinoa in the microwave!
This easy and foolproof method helps ensure that you get a quality bowl of quinoa without the hassle of preparing it over the stove. All you need to get started is quinoa, water, a pinch of salt, and a microwave-safe bowl. If you’re feeling fancy, you can also incorporate coconut oil to add extra richness and flavor to this dish.
Whether you’re meal prepping on a busy weeknight or simply trying to get lunch on the table in a pinch, this recipe has you covered! And if you love cooking with your kids, this recipe is an excellent and family-friendly one to test out together. Whatever you’re looking for, I can guarantee you will find it in this easy and delectable quinoa recipe.
Exploring the fascinating history of quinoa
Quinoa may be a popular ingredient in modern recipes, but did you know that it was first cultivated thousands of years ago? Indigenous peoples in South America began growing and harvesting this grain in the Andes Mountains. These individuals considered quinoa to be a sacred food, and it was used in a variety of religious rituals. Although quinoa is cooked and eaten like a grain, it is technically considered a seed. Quinoa grows especially well in harsh mountain climates and has long served as a protein source for mountain-based communities. But it wasn’t until the late 20th century that the popularity of quinoa took off worldwide. Today, quinoa is a favorite choice for plant-based or gluten-free diets. You can find quinoa in salads, breakfast bowls, stir-fries, or even desserts!
How do I store leftovers?
After your quinoa has cooled completely, place your leftovers into an airtight container. You can store your leftover quinoa in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. If you would like to store your leftovers for longer, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months. If you decide to freeze your leftovers, I recommend thawing these overnight before reheating. You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stove. If you find that your leftover quinoa is a bit dry, feel free to add a splash or two of water as you reheat.
Serving suggestions
The mild, nutty flavor of quinoa makes it the perfect base or side for a wide range of different dishes. You could serve your quinoa as a side dish alongside a main course of Honey-Glazed Salmon, Baked Chicken Breast, or Crispy Baked Tofu. You can also use quinoa as a topper for your favorite salad. Sprinkle a scoop of quinoa over this Avocado Caprese Salad or this Strawberry Salad for an added burst of flavor and texture. Finally, you could also incorporate your quinoa into a Southwest Quinoa Salad, a Quinoa Breakfast Bowl, or a batch of Quinoa Porridge.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed under cold water
- 2 cups water
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil optional
Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water using a fine mesh strainer to remove any impurities.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the rinsed quinoa, 2 cups of water, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Stir to ensure the quinoa is fully immersed.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or lid to contain the steam and cook evenly.
- Microwave on high for 6 minutes. Afterward, carefully remove the cover with a kitchen towel, stir the quinoa, and continue to microwave for an additional 2 minutes.
- Allow the cooked quinoa to rest, still covered, for 5 minutes on the countertop. Any remaining liquid will be absorbed during this time.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains and serve as desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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