This cilantro lime quinoa is an easy, gluten-free, protein rich one-pot meal or a side that is easy to make for a weeknight meal in 30 minutes. This meal is simple but rich in flavors. This is one bowl that you can count on any day. When served with a salad, guacamole, or salsa, this is simply amazing.
Why Quinoa?
Did you know that quinoa is a source of all nine essential amino acids that our body needs? It is a complete plant based protein source. This makes it a perfect base to start your meal and a ¼ cup of quinoa(dry) gives about 6g of protein. This detail will convince you to include this grain instead of any other grains in your meal.
Quinoa is available in tri-colored varieties too. Regular single colored quinoa or the colored ones can be used. It effectively takes the same amount of time and water to cook. In fact, I updated this post using the tri colored quinoa and the results were exactly the same. I use both kinds of quinoa interchangeably in this Cilantro Lime Quinoa, Ginger Garlic Quinoa, and Quinoa Burrito Bowl. If you love to include quinoa often, this garbanzo quinoa taco is a must try.
What are the flavors of this quinoa?
Simple and amazing, I would say! Just try it and you’ll acknowledge the same. The tang from lime juice and the zest and herb notes from cilantro makes this quinoa loaded with flavors. Sometimes, simple ingredients make the most flavorful and memorable meal, and this cilantro lime quinoa is a perfect example.
To make a protein rich and flavorful meal, the following ingredients are required.
Quinoa - Regular quinoa and tri colored ones can be used.
Salt - adds flavor.
Water - to cook quinoa
Lime - Fresh lime juice and a little lime zest boosts the flavor exponentially.
Cilantro - Fresh cilantro is ideal. In case you do not have fresh cilantro, dried cilantro can be used instead.
Oil - A little to make the grains separate. Neutral flavored oils work great.
Jalapenos/Serranos - One or jalapenos (based on the heat preference) give a flavor boost. Serranos can also be used if you love spicy quinoa.
Garlic - Though optional, a little garlic adds to immense flavor.
How to cook quinoa perfectly?
My technique to cook perfectly is to have a little less water than the amount suggested in the packaging, and then let it sit in the steam for 5-10 minutes. Adding a little oil to the water while cooking enables the quinoa to be fluffy. This gives the right texture I prefer for my quinoa.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, this is a one pot meal. I love one-pot meals as it makes life easier. There is less cleaning involved and more flavorful dishes can be made in this way. Try this Multi Millet and Dal Khichdi, Spinach and Paneer Orzo Pasta, Mexican Beans and Rice for more one-pot meal ideas.
Is this vegan?
This simple quinoa is vegan. No cream or butter is used. A little oil is used to make this recipe and this makes it vegan.
Sandhya Ramakrishnan says
We always order cilantro lime rice when eating at Mexican chains. This is a healthier option and will be great to serve as a side.
Sandhya Ramakrishnan says
We always order cilantro lime rice when eating at Mexican chains. This is a healthier option and will be great to serve as a side.
Srivalli says
Wow this is one interesting bowl Radha, very healthy and easy to assemble too..
Srivalli says
Wow this is one interesting bowl Radha, very healthy and easy to assemble too..
Hezzi-D says
I make a lot of quinoa so this will be a new way to flavor it!
Hezzi-D says
I make a lot of quinoa so this will be a new way to flavor it!
Hezzi-D says
I make a lot of quinoa so this will be a new way to flavor it!
Hezzi-D says
I make a lot of quinoa so this will be a new way to flavor it!
Karen says
This is so bright and colorful! I've got to make some quinoa.
Karen says
This is so bright and colorful! I've got to make some quinoa.
Karen says
This is so bright and colorful! I've got to make some quinoa.
Karen says
This is so bright and colorful! I've got to make some quinoa.
Colleen - Faith, Hope, Love, & Luck says
What a great addition to almost any meal. Perfect for grilling season!
Colleen - Faith, Hope, Love, & Luck says
What a great addition to almost any meal. Perfect for grilling season!
Colleen - Faith, Hope, Love, & Luck says
What a great addition to almost any meal. Perfect for grilling season!
Colleen - Faith, Hope, Love, & Luck says
What a great addition to almost any meal. Perfect for grilling season!
Colleen - Faith, Hope, Love, & Luck says
This would go great with just about any meal...especially during grilling season!
Colleen - Faith, Hope, Love, & Luck says
This would go great with just about any meal...especially during grilling season!
Colleen - Faith, Hope, Love, & Luck says
This would go great with just about any meal...especially during grilling season!
Colleen - Faith, Hope, Love, & Luck says
This would go great with just about any meal...especially during grilling season!