Cilantro Lime Quinoa
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
12 mins
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Total Time
17 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
126 kcal
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Course
Side Dish
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Cuisine
Vegetarian
Cilantro Lime Quinoa
Description
This recipe begins by rinsing and draining quinoa to remove bitterness, then lightly toasting it in a saucepan to deepen its flavor. Water is added and the quinoa is simmered covered until all liquid is absorbed and the grains are fluffy. Fresh chopped cilantro along with lime zest and juice are mixed in, accompanied by olive oil, salt, and black pepper for balanced seasoning.
The cooked quinoa has a tender yet slightly chewy texture complemented by the brightness of lime and the herbal freshness of cilantro. This dish can enhance a variety of meals, offering a light but flavorful base or side. It is especially useful as a salad topper or accompaniment to protein dishes.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Because quinoa absorbs the dressing over time, adding a bit more lime or oil when reheating or serving again can refresh the flavors effectively.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed, dry
- 1.5 cups water
- ¼ cup cilantro plus extra to taste, chopped leaves
- ½ lime see notes, zest and juice
- 1-2 TBSP olive oil or avocado oil
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- First rinse and drain your quinoa using a mesh strainer or sieve.
- Bring a medium saucepan to medium heat and lightly toast the quinoa to remove any excess water. Stir as it toasts for just a few minutes. This step is optional but really adds to the nuttiness and fluff factor of the quinoa!
- Next add your water, set burner to high, and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer, covered with the lid slightly ajar, for 12-13 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest and oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Toss to combine and taste.
- Add any extra cilantro, lime, or seasoning that your heart desires and dig in!
- Leftovers taste great and can be stored in the fridge for up to four days.
- The quinoa will soak up the lime and oil so, to amp up the flavor, add a little extra dressing the next day and you're good to go! A scoop or two makes a fabulous salad topper or a flavor-filled base for a yummy burrito bowl! I seriously can't get enough of this stuff!
Notes
- For stronger citrus flavor, use juice and zest from the whole lime instead of half.
- Rinsing quinoa before cooking reduces bitterness and improves flavor.
- Leftover quinoa can be refrigerated for up to four days and refreshed with additional lime or oil before serving.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 126 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 126kcal | 6% |
| Carbohydrates | 18g | 6% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Sodium | 4mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 159mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 45IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 1.8mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 17mg | 2% |
| Iron | 1.3mg | 7% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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