Lemon quinoa with olive oil

Lemon quinoa with olive oil is a refreshing side dish that features the nutty taste of quinoa enhanced by zesty lemon notes. This simple recipe is quick to prepare and pairs well with a variety of meals.

15 Nov 2025
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tsp lemon zest
1.50 tbsp olive oil
1 cup quinoa
2 tsp lemon juice

Lemon quinoa with olive oil is a delightful dish that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the fresh, zesty notes of lemon. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect as a side dish or as a base for a more elaborate meal. With only a few ingredients, it's both easy to prepare and nutritious, making it an excellent choice for a healthy and delicious meal.

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Quinoa:
- Place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water for about 1-2 minutes. This helps remove the natural coating called saponin, which can make quinoa taste bitter.

2. Toast the Quinoa (Optional):
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the rinsed quinoa. Toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to dry out and has a slightly nutty aroma. This step enhances the flavor but is optional.

3. Cook the Quinoa:
- Add 2 cups of water (or vegetable broth) to the saucepan with the quinoa.
- Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid.

4. Fluff and Season:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes with the lid on.
- After 5 minutes, remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains.

5. Add Lemon and Olive Oil:
- Transfer the cooked quinoa to a large bowl.
- Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil, and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice to the quinoa.
- Mix everything together until well combined. Add salt to taste if desired.

6. Serve:
- Serve the lemon quinoa warm or at room temperature, as a side dish or main course. It pairs well with grilled vegetables, fish, or chicken.

Enjoy your beautifully fragrant lemon quinoa with olive oil! This dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that can accompany a variety of main courses or be enjoyed on its own. Its light and refreshing taste make it a versatile and healthy addition to your recipe repertoire. Happy cooking!

Lemon quinoa with olive oil FAQ:

What is the cooking time for quinoa?

The quinoa takes about 15 minutes to cook after bringing it to a boil. Additionally, allow 5 minutes of resting time off heat before fluffing.

Can I use broth instead of water for cooking quinoa?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of water, which adds extra flavor to the quinoa.

How should I store leftover lemon quinoa?

Store leftover lemon quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat before serving.

What can I substitute for olive oil in this recipe?

You can substitute olive oil with another oil such as avocado oil or sesame oil, but keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile.

How do I know when the quinoa is done cooking?

The quinoa is done when it has absorbed all the liquid and the grains are fluffy. You should see the germ ring around each seed.

Tips:

- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness.

- Use a fine grater to zest the lemon for the best results.

- Try using fresh lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor.

- Consider adding a pinch of salt or a few herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra layer of taste.

- Fluff the quinoa with a fork after it's cooked to keep it light and airy.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 50kcal
Protein 1.88g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 1.20g
Sugar 0.43g
Fat 6g

Lemon quinoa with olive oil