Nutty Quinoa with Fresh Herbs (Printable)
Protein-packed quinoa with toasted nuts, fresh herbs, and a bright lemon finish. A satisfying side or light main dish.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Grains
01 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
02 - 2 cups vegetable broth or water
→ Nuts & Seeds
03 - 1/3 cup almonds, chopped
04 - 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
05 - 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
→ Aromatics & Herbs
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced
08 - 1 garlic clove, minced
09 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
10 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
→ Seasonings
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
12 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
# How-To Steps:
01 - In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, keep covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
02 - While quinoa cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped almonds, pecans, and sunflower seeds. Toast for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Transfer to a plate.
03 - In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté green onions and garlic for 1 to 2 minutes until softened.
04 - Add cooked quinoa to the skillet with sautéed aromatics. Toss to combine thoroughly.
05 - Stir in toasted nuts and seeds, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Serve warm or at room temperature as desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It turns a simple grain into a craveable main event.
- The texture contrast between fluffy quinoa and crunchy nuts is addictive.
02 -
- Letting the quinoa steam covered off the heat is crucial for perfect texture.
- Do not walk away from the stove when toasting the nuts or they will scorch.
03 -
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Toast the nuts in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly.