15 Healthy Quinoa Recipes

Quinoa is often mistaken for a grain, but it actually comes from a seed. Nevertheless, this superfood will boost your energy levels thanks to a high amount of iron, magnesium, and fiber. You can eat this grain-like ‘pseudo-cereal’ for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can even incorporate it into your favorite desserts. In fact, it is often used in place of rice or flour. If you are looking for fast yet flavorful recipes, check out these 15 healthy quinoa recipes.

Quinoa Roasted Chicken

If you are looking for a complete meal that can satisfy the whole family, try a quinoa roasted chicken recipe. The ingredient list includes white quinoa and boneless chicken breasts along with broth and green beans. You can make a to-die-for olive gremolata to compliment the chicken. Although it is over 520 calories, this hearty meal boasts of seven grams of fiber and a whopping 48 grams of protein.

Quinoa Tabbouleh

If you are searching for a tasty vegetarian meal, then try this Levantine dish with a twist. Traditionally, tabbouleh is made with tomatoes, parsley, onions, mint, and bulgur. Seasonings include lemon juice, olive oil, and salt, although some versions might use garlic, lettuce, or couscous. Toss in some quinoa, and you have a quick and healthy lunch.

Quinoa Pancakes

You can bake delicious quinoa pancakes –they are fast and easy! Mix quinoa, water, egg whites and you will discover one of your favorite new breakfast dishes. The best thing about pancakes is that you have the free range to add your own ingredients. Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and garlic are all great options. For a low-calorie meal, eat your quinoa pancakes over a bed of spinach leaves. Or spice things up with some tasty salsa.

Black Beans and Quinoa

Skip the rice this time and grab the quinoa! If you are feeling sluggish, this tasty meal will give you the energy-revving boost you need. Not only are black beans packed with protein and fiber, but they are also a hearty helping of magnesium and iron, too. With minimal ingredients including tomato, scallion, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and, of course, the black beans and quinoa, you will be surprised how full you feel after eating this yummy meal.

Chickpea and Quinoa Burgers

As a vegetarian, you desire more meatless options. Have you ever swapped out a beef burger for a chickpea and quinoa version? You can make a delicious meal for your entire family using white quinoa, vegetable broth, chickpeas, one large egg, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper. Using whole-wheat pitas or bread, you can top your burger with sliced avocado, tomato, small red chile, or even salad greens.

Lemon-Blueberry Quinoa Porridge

Instead of eating oatmeal everyday switch up the menu a bit with some tasty porridge. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which fight off damaging free radicals. The zest of a lemon will create a delicious flavor. Toss in some almonds for a welcoming crunch and always opt for almond milk to make this breakfast full of protein and fiber, which is a great way to jumpstart your day.

Ginger-Pecan Quinoa Muffins

Although most restaurants and supermarkets have muffins stocked on the shelves, they are often loaded with unhealthy sweets. However, you can whip up a batch of scrumptious quinoa muffins and eat the pan without guilty. All you need, besides quinoa, ginger, and pecans, is eggs, milk, water, salt, and sugar. Throw in some dried apricots if you like, and each muffin is still just over 115 calories.

Quinoa with Chiles and Corn

Satisfy your taste buds with this spicy quinoa dish. It has jalapeno peppers along with chicken broth, whole-kernel corn, scallions, lime juice, and cumin. A serving of the good stuff deems nine grams of protein and four grams of fiber. You can keep your sodium in check by using no-salt-added corn and low-sodium broth.

Quinoa Chimichangas

For a lighter take on a Mexican favorite, try these mouthwatering chimichangas. Mix in reduced-fat options when possible including sour cream and cheese, so you still get your boost of calcium without the extra fat. Likewise, use tomatoes and avocado cream in place of heavy sauces. Chimichangas usually have seasonings like salsa verde, cilantro, onion, and garlic, but you can chop up some quinoa, mushrooms, kale, and chicken for a zesty feast.

Quinoa and Turkey Meatloaf

First of all, turkey meatloaf compared to beef is healthier from the start. However, did you know it equates to the same familiar texture and surprisingly tasty flavor? The next secret is in the quinoa; it also adds to the texture but makes the flavor a bit nuttier than breadcrumbs.

Quinoa-Granola Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you have a sweet tooth and want to feed your cravings, you should reach for a whole-grain option. This dessert features quinoa flour as a main ingredient. Besides that, you can mix in the traditional components like butter, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and semisweet chocolate mini-chips. With just over 130 calories, you will love eating this tasty yet healthy treats.

Quinoa-Stuffed Kale Rolls

Eating kale rolls alone is a healthy choice. However, stuffing them with quinoa is a satisfying meatless option. You can also crumble some goat cheese on top for a rich flavor with bone-building calcium. Plum tomatoes, onions, or walnuts, are other healthy additions. If you have already wrapped kale in foods before then, take advantage of its long, flat, pliable leaves for some yummy quinoa.

Quinoa Pudding

Who knew quinoa could be used for so many healthy desserts? What is even better about this recipe is that you can make it free of gluten, too. Similar to rice pudding, this sweet treat can have a variety of flavors including cinnamon, vanilla, orange, or coconut. This delectable dessert will leave you feeling full because it is packed with protein.

Quinoa Garbanzo Bean Salad

Although this is labeled a salad, it is actually a complete meal by itself. This vegan recipe has a rich source of protein in both the quinoa and garbanzo beans. However, if you mix it with olive oil and broccoli, you have a healthy fat and green vegetable, respectively. Toss in some garlic and other traditional seasonings, and you will have the favorite dish at the potluck feast.

Shiitake-Stuffed Butternut with Quinoa Streusel

Butternut squash is a healthy food that is packed with potassium and folate. The stuffing adds a healthy dose of vitamin A and vitamin C. However, the entire meatless meal with the quinoa coating yields 10 grams of protein and fiber. Besides shitake mushroom caps and butternut squash, you will need some broccolini, lime, baby spinach, and quinoa flakes. Combine that with ginger, salt, pepper, and garlic for a tasty meal just over 350 calories per serving.