Lemon Quinoa

1. 1
   prep · ~1 min

   Rinse the quinoa under cold water.

   Place the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold running water for about 30 seconds to remove the natural saponin coating (which can taste bitter).

   TIPDon't skip rinsing — unrinsed quinoa can taste soapy or bitter.
2. 2
   boil · ~20 min

   Cook the quinoa until fluffy.

   1.Add rinsed quinoa, water, and 0.25 tsp of the salt to a medium saucepan.

   2.Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.

   3.Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes.

   4.Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.

   TIPDo not lift the lid while simmering — steam is key to fluffy quinoa.
3. 3
   saute · ~2 min

   Sauté the garlic in olive oil.

   1.While the quinoa rests, heat olive oil in a small pan over medium-low heat.

   2.Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and just golden (about 1 minute).

   3.Remove pan from heat immediately.

   TIPKeep the heat medium-low — garlic burns fast and turns bitter.
4. 4
   mix · ~2 min

   Fluff and dress the quinoa.

   1.Fluff the cooked quinoa gently with a fork.

   2.Pour the warm garlic oil over the quinoa.

   3.Add lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, remaining salt, and black pepper.

   4.Toss gently with the fork until everything is evenly combined.
5. 5
   serve

   Serve warm or at room temperature.

   Transfer to a serving bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning — add an extra squeeze of lemon if it needs more brightness.

   TIPThis keeps well in the fridge for 4 days, making it great for meal prep.

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