33 Best Quinoa Recipes and Dinner Ideas

From breakfast and lunch to dinner and dessert, these sensational quinoa recipes are beyond delish and crazy versatile.

They’re hearty, healthy, and kid-friendly to boot!

Quinoa is loaded with protein and fiber and is known to lower cholesterol and blood sugar. It’s also super rich in antioxidants, and it’s naturally gluten-free.

So yeah, it’s basically a powerhouse grain you need in your pantry!

Better yet, you can use it in everything from salads to pancakes.

Trust me, you’ll want to bookmark these quinoa recipes because they’re too good to miss.

How to Cook Perfect Quinoa 

1. Quinoa Salad with Orange, Cranberry and Mint

This quinoa salad is the perfect dish to bring to a potluck or summer BBQ. It’s light, refreshing, and jam-packed with flavor.

The orange, cranberry, and mint complement each other beautifully, and the feta adds a nice touch of salty creaminess.

Plus, it’s easy to make and can be served as a main dish or side.

2. Fluffy Quinoa

Quinoa is a delicious, healthy grain that can be added to pretty much any meal. However, it can be a bit wet if you don’t cook it right.

Luckily, this recipe guarantees fluffy quinoa every time!

I recommend cooking it in chicken broth, so there’s a subtle flavor that pairs well with any protein. (Use veggie broth if you need it vegan.)

3. Cherry Pistachio Quinoa Salad

This combination of sweet cherries, savory pistachios, and nutty quinoa will please even the pickiest eaters.

And it’s healthy too!

Quinoa is full of vitamins and minerals, and pistachios are a terrific source of protein. So go ahead and indulge guilt-free.

Serve the salad as a side dish, or add grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

4. Black Bean and Quinoa Enchilada Bake

This dish is perfect for anyone who loves enchiladas but is looking for a healthier alternative.

The black beans and quinoa provide plenty of protein and fiber, while the vegetables add nutrients and flavor.

Serve this enchilada bake with a salad or corn chips to scoop up the yumminess.

It is also great as leftovers – simply reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick next day meal.

5. Pear Quinoa Salad with Arugula and Roasted Hazelnuts

The next time you need something light and flavorful for lunch, try this sensational salad.

Full of flavor and texture, it’s overflowing with sweet, buttery pears, nutty hazelnuts, and peppery arugula.

The quinoa provides a satisfying and filling base, while the roasted hazelnuts add a crunchy element.

Serve it on its own or with grilled chicken or fish. Yum!

6. Kale and Quinoa Salad

Kale and quinoa are two superfoods praised for their many health benefits. So, why not supercharge your day and enjoy them together?

This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the slightly bitter taste of kale. And tops it off with a zesty lemon dressing you’ll love.

It’s the perfect meal for health-conscious foodies looking to get their greens.

And don’t forget the serving suggestions: top with grilled chicken or salmon for added protein or crumbled feta cheese for a bit of creaminess.

7. Quinoa Cumin Crackers with Carrot Hummus

Quinoa and cumin crackers are just the thing when you’re craving something crispy and savory.

They’re also surprisingly easy to make and go great with carrot hummus.

I like to make a big batch of these at the beginning of the week and then enjoy them as a healthy snack. 

8. Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Quinoa-stuffed peppers are a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

While rice (the usual stuffed pepper filling) is also gluten-free, quinoa has the added boost of protein to keep you full for longer.

Mix in some veggies and spices, and you’re good to go!

9. Spring Quinoa Salad with Honey Lemon Vinaigrette

Behold the power of quinoa! This protein-packed grain is the best way to turn a simple salad into a hearty meal.

The honey lemon vinaigrette is light and refreshing, while the feta cheese adds plenty of creamy goodness.

Better still, you can customize this recipe however you like. So feel free to add some grilled chicken, shrimp, chopped fruit, or nuts.

10. Balsamic Caprese Quinoa Salad

This dish is proof that healthy food doesn’t have to sacrifice flavor.

Embellished with protein-rich quinoa, fresh mozzarella, and zesty tomatoes, this salad is sure to leave you feeling satisfied.

The balsamic dressing adds a delicious depth of flavor, while the basil leaves provide a beautiful garnish.

Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.

11. Blueberry Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

Start your day off right with this nutritious and delicious breakfast bowl.

Featuring quinoa, blueberries, and almond milk, it’s got an outstanding balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

The blueberries add a pop of sweetness, while the walnuts and pecans provide a satisfying crunch.

12. Quinoa Avocado Salad

Packed with nutrients, this dish is ideal as a light side to your next steak dinner.

The quinoa and avocado provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals, while the grape tomatoes and red onions add a pop of color and flavor.

I like it with crumbled feta and corn too!

13. BLT Quinoa Salad

Sometimes, you just need a little break from the ordinary. That’s where this unique quinoa salad comes in.

It’s a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, and it’s perfect for a light lunch or special side dish.

Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, there’s plenty to keep you full, but it won’t weigh you down.

14. Quinoa Spring Rolls with Cashew Dipping Sauce

How amazing do these fresh quinoa rolls look? I love that you can see the colorful ingredients through the wrapper!

The recipe calls for a simple mix of chopped cucumber, red pepper, carrots, cilantro, and mint. But you can change those flavors pretty easily.

What you don’t want to mess with is the sauce! It’s nutty, smooth, zippy, and to die for!

15. Quinoa Pancakes

Why would you make plain old pancakes when you can have them this healthy and loaded with goodness?

Not only are these a delicious and nutritious way to start your day, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make.

Top them with fresh fruit and a little maple syrup. Yum!

16. Crockpot Spicy Vegetarian Tortilla Soup with Quinoa

Brimming with protein and fiber-rich quinoa, as well as an array of veggies, this soup is sure to leave you feeling satisfied.

And thanks to the Crockpot, it’s a breeze to whip up.

Top your bowl with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Then kick back, relax, and enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal.

17. 5-Ingredient Garlic Butter Quinoa

Minimalist garlic butter quinoa is easy, flavorful, and perfect for busy days.

This recipe only calls for five ingredients – quinoa, butter, garlic, salt, and vegetable broth – and it can be on the table in less than 30 minutes.

Garlic gives the dish a beautiful savory note, and the salt and broth enhance the flavors beautifully.

Meanwhile, the butter adds flavor and irresistible creaminess. But feel free to swap it out for oil or a vegan alternative if needed.

18. Roasted Mushrooms with Herbed Quinoa

If you need a tasty and healthy recipe that’s sure to please, look no further than roasted mushrooms with herbed quinoa.

This dish is packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of earthy mushrooms, nutty quinoa, and fresh herbs.

Even though the recipe is excellent as is, I always add some rosemary and thyme for a boost of fragrant notes.

19. One-Pot Quinoa with Peas and Parmesan

Hearty, healthy, and oh-so-cheesy, this one-pot quinoa and pea dish is such a lovely dinner for the family.

Since it cooks in one pot, you don’t need to worry about cleanup. And it’s so good, your family will probably lick their plates clean!

Make it vegan by swapping the cheese for nutritional yeast.

20. Strawberry Quinoa Salad

Anyone who says they don’t like salad has clearly never had one as scrummy as this!

Sweet and juicy strawberries with fluffy quinoa is tasty and good for you. Plus, it looks way more appetizing than a boring bowl of greens.

The healthy ingredients and the delicious dressing make this salad terrific any time of day.

21. Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach and Quinoa Salad

Bring this salad to your next summer picnic, and it’ll be smiles all around.

The sun-dried tomatoes add a wonderfully chewy texture with plenty of tangy flavor, while the spinach provides a garden-fresh finish.

And, of course, quinoa is packed with protein and nutrients, making this salad a true powerhouse.

22. Healthy Chicken Parmesan Quinoa Casserole

Chicken parmesan is a classic dish that pretty much everyone loves. Who can turn down juicy chicken in a crispy crust?

But sometimes, you just need something a little healthier.

So, instead of breadcrumbs and hot oil, you’ll coat the chicken in Parmesan and garlic powder.

Then, cook it with the quinoa and marinara until everything is infused with flavor.

23. Curried Quinoa Salad

Curried quinoa takes this classic grain from good to great. From just okay to spectacular.

First of all, it looks phenomenal! All those colors and fresh ingredients are so mouthwatering.

And when you take that first bite? It’s an explosion of earthy, spicy, sweet flavors.

The tahini adds a nice layer of flavor, making this dish unique.

24. Quinoa Meatballs

Quinoa meatballs are a deliciously healthy alternative to traditional meatballs.

They’re made with quinoa and lentils, ensuring every bite is protein-packed and meat-free. And they go with pretty much every sauce you can think of.

Serve them as an appetizer, add them to your favorite pasta dish, or stuff them into a sub with gooey melted cheese.

Either way, you’ll love them!

25. Mediterranean Salmon and Vegetable Quinoa

This recipe is healthy, delicious, and easy to make. What more could you ask for?

The salmon is loaded with nutrients and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Add some colorful, flavorful veggies for a texture contrast, and you’re good to go.

It’s perfect for anyone who’s trying to eat healthily.

26. Roasted Broccoli Quinoa Salad

Salad might not sound like the most exciting thing in the world, but this yummy recipe is guaranteed to change your mind.

The key to making a good salad is to use fresh, flavorful ingredients, and this recipe has plenty of both.

The roasted broccoli is crispy and slightly sweet, while the quinoa provides a nutty contrast.

It’s also brimming with kale, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas for a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.

27. Apple Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad

This salad is a showcase of bright fall flavors.

You’ll pair sweet, crisp apples with nutty quinoa and earthy sweet potatoes. So, every bite is exciting.

Throw in some cranberries for a chewy contrast, and a bit of goat cheese will bring a tangy element I know you’ll love.

28. Mexican Quinoa Salad

Make this Mexican quinoa salad the next time you’re craving some spicy Tex-Mex flavors.

Combining fresh vegetables, beans, and seasonings ensures every spoonful is flavorful, nutrient-rich, and sure to please.

For an added touch of flavor, top the salad with shredded cheese and crunchy tortilla strips.

29. Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash

Acorn squash is a delicious, nutty-tasting winter squash that can be roasted, steamed, pureed, or stuffed.

I love it during the holidays, and this stuffed squash recipe is my go-to.

It features a savory filling of quinoa, onions, and cranberries, all nestled inside the sweet shell and baked for 15 minutes.

The result is a hearty and satisfying main course that’s perfect for any autumn-inspired occasion.

30. Quinoa Rice Pudding Recipe

Rice pudding is one of my all-time favorite sweet treats.

I like it warm with a dollop of strawberry jam in the middle. Or cold with fresh mango slices! Yum!

This quinoa version is super creamy thanks to the mascarpone and plenty sweet with the addition of maple syrup.

The quinoa creates a thick texture that’s more like chia pudding. Still, it’s crazy tasty and pretty darn good for you, too.

31. Gluten-Free Flourless Chocolate Quinoa Cake

I know what you’re thinking: that insanely rich, decadent, chocolatey, sinful, dreamy chocolate cake is gluten-free and full of quinoa???

It really is!

You’ll need to cook the quinoa until it’s tender, then blend it with cake staples until smooth.

Bake and boom! You’ve got one helluva chocolate cake on your hands!

32. High Protein Healthy Egg Scramble with Quinoa

Everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But what happens when you’re tired of eggs and oatmeal?

It’s simple – you make this healthy egg scramble with quinoa!

Between the grains, eggs, and spinach, there’s plenty to keep you full and fueled.

Go ahead and add some bacon (real or vegan) and dig in!

33. Double Chocolate Quinoa Brownies

Get ready to eat this whole pan because, trust me, you’ll definitely want to.

These babies are rich, chocolatey, and insanely moist.

Between the applesauce, flax eggs, quinoa, and almond butter, there’s plenty of goodness in each brownie square.

But don’t worry: they still taste indulgent. You can just feel better about that second piece!