ZESTY LEMON-GARLIC QUINOA
Zesty Lemon-Garlic Quinoa is a nutritious, light and flavourful dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. The subtle crankiness of quinoa blends perfectly with the bright tang of lemon and the warmth of garlic, creating a well-balanced dish that is refreshing and satisfying. Olive oil adds richness, while black pepper and salt enhance the overall taste. This quick and easy recipe is high in protein and fibre, making it an excellent choice for a healthy side dish, meal prep or plant-based meal option. It is naturally gluten-free, vegan and packed with essential nutrients, making it suitable for those on keto, paleo and whole30 diets. Whether served with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables or as a base for bowls, this lemon-garlic quinoa is a versatile, wholesome and delicious addition to your menu.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Side Dish, Main Course
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean, Californian
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Boil, Simmer, 5 Ingredients or Less, Quick & Easy
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Casual Dinner, Meal Prep, Spring, Summer, Light Lunch
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, High Protein, Gluten-Free, Vegan, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Low Fat, Paleo, Whole30
DISH TYPE
Quinoa, Healthy Grain
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Zesty Lemon-Garlic Quinoa:
- ¼ cup quinoa
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fibre:5g
- Sugars: 0g
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat:5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Potassium: 120mg
- Vitamin C: 4mg
- Iron: 1mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Zesty Lemon-Garlic Quinoa:
- Rinse the Quinoa: Place the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water for 30 seconds to remove bitterness.
- Boil the Water: In a small saucepan, bring ½ cup of water to a boil over medium-high flame.
- Cook the Quinoa: Add the rinsed quinoa to the boiling water, reduce the heat to low, cover and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
- Fluff and Rest: Remove it from heat, keep it covered and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper and salt.
- Combine Everything: Pour the seasoning mixture over the fluffed quinoa and stir well to distribute flavours evenly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy warm as a side dish or add toppings like fresh herbs and vegetables for extra flavour.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
15 minutes
TIPS
- Stain quinoa before cooking: Removes any natural bitterness from the grain.
- Quinoa rest: Let the quinoa rest after cooking, which helps to achieve a fluffier texture.
- Adjust lemon taste: Add more lemon juice for a stronger citrus flavour.
- Use a fork to fluff: Prevents quinoa from becoming mushy.
VARIATIONS
- Add herbs: Mix in fresh parsley, cilantro or basil for extra freshness.
- Increase protein: Toss in chickpeas, grilled chicken or tofu for a protein boost.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for some heat.
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for added texture.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Short-Term Storage: Store cooked quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing Option: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months; reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water.
- Meal Prep Tip: Cook a larger batch and use it throughout the week for salads, bowls or side dishes.