There are days when life moves fast, and all you need is a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. That’s where this microwave quinoa recipe comes in a true game-changer for anyone who’s short on time but still wants something wholesome.
I remember the first time I tried to cook quinoa on the stovetop; I ended up with either undercooked grains or a sticky mess. Then, I discovered the microwave method, and everything changed.
With just a few simple steps, you can achieve perfectly fluffy quinoa every single time, no fuss, no mess. The microwave method is a lifesaver, especially when you’re juggling a busy schedule.
The result is tender, nutty grains with a slightly chewy texture that pairs beautifully with just about anything. Whether you’re adding it to a salad, serving it as a side with Filipino BBQ Chicken Skewers, or tossing it into a quick stir-fry, this microwave quinoa is the ultimate versatile base.
Give it a try, and you might just find yourself using this method over the traditional stovetop approach.
Why I Love This Recipe?
- I used to struggle with getting quinoa just right, but this microwave method takes all the guesswork out.
- Perfect for when you need a healthy side dish in a hurry—no waiting around for water to boil.
- Only one bowl is needed, which means fewer dishes to wash and more time to enjoy your meal.
- I love making a big batch at the start of the week to use in various meals—it’s a time-saver that keeps me eating healthy all week long.
Microwave Quinoa Recipe
Equipment
- Fine Mesh Strainer
- microwave-safe plate or cover
- large microwave-safe bowl
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed under cold water
Optional
- 1 tbsp coconut oil, or butter
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa in a fine mesh strainer under cold water.
- Transfer the rinsed quinoa to a large microwave-safe bowl.
- Add water, salt, and oil (if desired), and stir to ensure the quinoa is fully submerged.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or lid.
- Microwave on high for 6 minutes. Carefully remove the cover, stir, and microwave for an additional 4 minutes.
- If any seeds are still unopened, microwave for another minute.
- Remove the bowl from the microwave and let the quinoa sit, covered, for 5 minutes to absorb any remaining liquid.
- If there's still water, let it sit uncovered for a few more minutes.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Notes
- This recipe works best with white quinoa, though some tricolor quinoa brands may require extra cooking time.
- If your quinoa isn’t fully cooked, microwave in 1-minute intervals until the seeds pop open.
- Let the quinoa cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 209 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Vitamin A | 8 IU |
| Iron | 3 mg |
| Calcium | 31 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know when the quinoa is fully cooked?
The quinoa is done when the grains have expanded, and you see the little spirals (germ) separating from the seeds. The texture should be tender but slightly chewy.
What should I do if there’s still water after cooking?
If there’s liquid left in the bowl after microwaving, let the quinoa sit covered for a few minutes. The quinoa will absorb the remaining water. If needed, uncover it and let it sit a bit longer.
Can I use broth instead of water?
Absolutely! Using vegetable or chicken broth instead of water adds extra flavor to the quinoa, making it more savory and rich.
Do I need to rinse the quinoa before cooking?
Yes, rinsing quinoa helps remove its natural coating called saponin, which can give it a bitter taste. It’s an important step to ensure a better flavor.