Description
A simple and vibrant 5-ingredient Lemon Turmeric Quinoa recipe that’s light, nutritious, and perfect as a side dish or a base for a wholesome meal. Combining the bright zest of lemon with earthy turmeric and fluffy quinoa, this dish comes together quickly with minimal ingredients, making it ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked quinoa (from 1 cup uncooked)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- Juice and zest of 1/2 a lemon (about 1 tablespoon juice, 1 teaspoon zest)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric powder
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon salt, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- Chopped green onions
- Thai basil
- Ground black pepper
- Cashews
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa thoroughly under cold water. Cook it in about 2 cups of water by bringing it to a boil, then reducing heat to low and simmering covered for 10-15 minutes until tender and fluffy. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and let it cool until warm to the touch.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the warm quinoa with 1 teaspoon coconut oil, juice and zest of half a lemon, 1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric powder, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir thoroughly to blend all the flavors evenly. Taste and adjust salt as needed to suit your preference.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, gently fold in optional add-ins such as chopped green onions, Thai basil, ground black pepper, or cashews for added texture and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the lemon turmeric quinoa as a wonderful side dish or a base for bowls paired with your favorite protein or veggies.
Notes
- Make sure quinoa is rinsed well to remove its natural bitterness before cooking.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor brightness.
- Turmeric adds earthiness and vibrant color, and can be adjusted to taste.
- Optional add-ins can be customized based on what’s available or your flavor preference.
- This quinoa can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean