Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or basil)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- 1/4 cup dried fruit (such as cranberries, raisins, or apricots)
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Fine mesh strainer
- Large saucepan with lid
- Fork
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water for 1-2 minutes, until the water runs clear.
2. In a large saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil over high heat.
3. Add the rinsed quinoa to the boiling water and stir to combine.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the quinoa is tender and the water has been absorbed.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
6. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer it to a mixing bowl.
7. Add the olive oil, chopped herbs, nuts, dried fruit, and cheese (if using) to the mixing bowl.
8. Toss the ingredients together until well combined.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Simmer on low heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 220
Total fat: 9g
Saturated fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 5mg
Sodium: 320mg
Total carbohydrates: 29g
Dietary fiber: 4g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Quinoa: can be substituted with brown rice, farro, or couscous
- Fresh herbs: can be substituted with dried herbs
- Nuts: can be substituted with seeds (such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds)
- Dried fruit: can be substituted with fresh fruit (such as diced apple or pear)
- Cheese: can be omitted for a vegan version
Variations:
- Mediterranean: add chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and kalamata olives
- Mexican: add black beans, corn, and diced avocado
- Asian: add sliced scallions, grated carrots, and chopped peanuts
Tips and tricks:
- Use a fork to fluff the quinoa instead of a spoon to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the quinoa for extra flavor.
- Make a double batch and store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
Microwave for 1-2 minutes or heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the quinoa in a large bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with extra chopped herbs and nuts.
Garnishes:
Chopped herbs and nuts
Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Roasted vegetables
- Green salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Hummus and pita bread
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Steamed broccoli
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the quinoa is still crunchy after 20 minutes of cooking, add a splash of water and continue to simmer until tender.
- If the quinoa is too wet, remove the lid and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the excess moisture to evaporate.
Food safety advice:
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris or bitterness.
- Store leftovers in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Quinoa is a grain-like seed that has been cultivated in the Andes region of South America for thousands of years. It was a staple food of the Incas and is still widely consumed in Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador.
Flavor profiles:
The quinoa formula is a versatile dish that can be customized with a variety of flavors and textures. The quinoa itself has a nutty, slightly earthy flavor, while the herbs, nuts, and dried fruit add brightness and sweetness.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the quinoa formula as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish and roasted vegetables. It also makes a great addition to a green salad or a mezze platter.
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Region: Peruvian