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Quinoa Pilaf
Quinoa Pilaf
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Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Protein-packed quinoa cooked with savory veggies, herbs, and a pilaf twist. Simple, nutritious, and delicious!
Ingredients:
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided in half
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts
  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • Pinch freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or Thai basil*
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (or green onions including the greens)
  • 1 small cucumber, peeled, seeds removed, chopped
  • Salt and pepper
Instructions:
  • Rinse quinoa in a large sieve under cold water until water runs clear, following package instructions if provided.
  • In a 1 1/2 to 2 quart pot over medium-high heat, sauté onion, bell pepper, garlic, and pine nuts in 1 Tbsp of olive oil until onions are translucent, stirring occasionally. Do not let them brown.
  • Introduce quinoa: Add the raw quinoa and cook, stirring occasionally for a couple more minutes, allowing some of it to become lightly toasted.
  • Pour 2 cups of water into a pot along with one teaspoon of salt. Bring to a gentle simmer with the lid slightly ajar to release steam. Let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and transfer to a large serving bowl. Fluff with a fork before serving.
  • Combine the olive oil, fresh herbs, and cucumber. Allow the mixture to cool until slightly warm, then incorporate an additional tablespoon of olive oil. Fold in the chopped mint, basil, chives, and cucumber. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Enjoy this dish chilled or at room temperature.