Quinoa is surprisingly versatile. These healthy quinoa recipes include everything from breakfast bars to casseroles and much more!
Hello friends, life has been crazy recently. Updates on that are coming on Friday Favorites this week. But, in the meantime, I’m popping in with a whole bunch of recipes you can use that giant Costco bag of quinoa stuffed in your pantry for!
I feel like quinoa had its day in the sun or five minutes of fame. Now, it seems as common as rice, and many times I forget about it. As demonstrated by this round-up of 19 recipes all from HH, I used to kind of be OBSESSED with making things out of quinoa. Now, I’ve realized I’ve had two bags of quinoa that haven’t been touched in over a year. That’s a shame because this versatile nutrient-dense powerhouse of whole grain is delicious!
What is Quinoa?
Similar to how wild rice isn’t a grain, quinoa isn’t actually a grain either. They are both considered pseudograins because they have similar properties to grains, but botanically speaking are actually seeds. There are many different types and colors of quinoa, most commonly red, black, and white quinoa. You can use any or a mix in any of the below recipes.
Is Quinoa Healthy?
Quinoa is plant food, and like just about every other plant food, quinoa is loaded with anti-inflammatory phytochemicals, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Quinoa provides only 220 calories, 8 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat, and at least 5 grams of fiber per cup.
Quinoa also is higher in protein and fiber than most whole grains or even pseudograins and, therefore, can be a better choice for blood sugar control. However, those with conditions requiring close monitoring of blood sugar, such as pre-diabetes, diabetes, and PCOS, should consume quinoa within limits.
The protein it contains is also considered a “complete” protein, meaning it contains all essential amino acids. While this may not be a big concern for most people, this makes it a perfect choice for vegetarians who have limited options for complete proteins. In addition, quinoa is gluten-free, making it a safe choice for celiac or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
How to Use Quinoa
Quinoa can be eaten as just a plain side dish, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can use it to make breakfast bars, casseroles, skillet meals, and even more. Take a scroll and try one of the recipes below!
Tag me if you make any of these! I love to see what you guys make! You can tag me on Insta @hungryhobbyRD and Facebook @hungryhobby!
Healthy Quinoa Recipes
Quinoa is surprisingly versatile, these healthy quinoa recipes include everything from breakfast bars, to casseroles, and much more!
Cheesy pizza quinoa bites are a delicious and healthy vegetarian lunch, snack, or appetizer. A kid-friendly meal everyone will love!
This Quinoa Enchilada Skillet is a flavorful dinner made in less than 30 minutes for the weeknight win!
Chicken Shawarma Mediterranean Salad – flavorful juicy chicken, grilled to perfection on top a crunchy super chopped salad for flavor in every single bite! Gluten Free
Delicious healthy portable protein pack lunch or snack!
Healthy Creamy Chicken Casserole is a hearty, comforting and filling healthy meal made with A2 milk.
Gluten Free Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad (Tabouli) “parsley & quinoa salad” is a refreshing vegetarian side dish, dip, or addition to another recipe!
Buffalo Cheddar Quinoa bites with a cheesy spicy kick! Perfect appetizer for the next football party or for an energizing delicious snack!
Cranberry Date Quinoa Breakfast Bars are a hearty on the go gluten-free breakfast bar bursting with the sweetness of dates and warm tart cranberries in every bite.
These muffins are packed with good for you ingredients but then cream cheese frosting slathered on to of these babies disguises any shred of healthiness!
A delicious granola bar that is way healthier for you packed with omega 3's.
These Pumpkin Apple Quinoa Breakfast Bars are a delicious and portable healthy fall breakfast or snack for both adults and kids, everyone loves them!
These homemade Cinnamon Apple Quinoa Bars are the perfect portable healthy breakfast or snack, meal prep and freezer friendly!
An oldie but goodie recipe! A great way to use leftover pears!
This delicious take on banana walnut bread is portable, freezer-friendly.
Spanakopita turkey casserole packed with feta, spinach, and fluffy quinoa.
Kung Pao Chicken Casserole is BURSTING with flavor, plus it will feed a crowd or serve the best meal prep ever, plus it freezes well! (Gluten and Dairy Free)
Chicken quinoa soup is an upgrade to the classic chicken noodle. It’s perfect for sick days and warming up on cold nights!
Spicy Quinoa is an easy freezable dish that, when paired with any protein, becomes a quick healthy meal, the whole family will love.
Don’t be fooled, just because quinoa is swapped for traditional pasta, this is your creamy incredibly cheesy mac and cheese of your childhood dreams.
[…] Healthy Quinoa Recipes […]