Quinoa Pilaf

Light, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this quinoa pilaf is a versatile dish that can shine as a hearty side or a main course. Featuring nutrient-rich quinoa simmered in vegetable stock, it’s infused with aromatic spices like cumin and thyme for an earthy depth of flavor. Sautéed vegetables—onions, carrots, and celery—add texture and sweetness, while vibrant peas, fresh parsley, and a splash of lemon juice bring brightness to every bite. Ready in just 35 minutes, this gluten-free and nutrient-packed recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Pair it with roasted proteins or serve it on its own for a healthy, satisfying option!

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable stock
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 large carrot, finely diced
• 1 large celery stalk, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 0.5 teaspoons dried thyme
• 0.5 teaspoons ground cumin
• 0.75 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.5 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the quinoa under cold running water in a fine-mesh sieve for at least 30 seconds to remove its natural bitterness. Drain well.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups of water or vegetable stock to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and set aside.

Step 3

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and ground cumin to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

Step 5

Stir in the cooked quinoa, salt, and black pepper, mixing until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 6

Add the frozen peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are warmed through.

Step 7

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and fresh lemon juice, adjusting the seasonings to taste if necessary.

Step 8

Serve the quinoa pilaf warm as a side dish or as a standalone meal. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1112.2 grams (1112.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	972

Total Fat 41.10g	53%
Saturated Fat 4.60g	23%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4898mg	213%
Total Carbohydrate 122.90g	45%
Dietary Fiber 9.00g	32%
Total Sugars 14.60g
Protein 28.90g	58%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 214mg	16%
Iron 8mg	44%
Potassium 1581mg	34%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 37.9%

Protein: 11.8%

Carbs: 50.3%