Best 2 California Quinoa Recipes

When it comes to cooking "california quinoa", there are endless possibilities and delectable recipes to choose from. The versatile nature of this grain allows for a wide range of flavors and culinary creations. Whether you prefer savory or sweet dishes, hearty or light meals, the perfect "california quinoa" recipe awaits your discovery. Let's embark on a culinary journey to find the most tantalizing and satisfying recipe that will elevate your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

CALIFORNIA QUINOA

California Quinoa image

I'm always changing this salad up. Here I used tomato, zucchini and olives for a Greek-inspired salad. Try adding a few more favorite fresh veggies you know your family will love. -Elizabeth Lubin, Huntington Beach, California

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup quinoa, rinsed and well drained
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium zucchini, chopped
2 cups water
3/4 cup canned garbanzo beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 medium tomato, finely chopped
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped Greek olives
2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add quinoa and garlic; cook and stir 2-3 minutes or until quinoa is lightly browned. Stir in zucchini and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until liquid is absorbed, 12-15 minutes. Stir in remaining ingredients; heat through.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 310 calories, Fat 11g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 8mg cholesterol, Sodium 353mg sodium, Carbohydrate 42g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 6g fiber), Protein 11g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

CALIFORNIA QUINOA SALAD

California Quinoa Salad image

My step mom brought this to our family's weekly lunch and visit. It was enjoyed by all ages (which ranged from 1 to 71! I am not sure where she got this recipe, but it is definitely going in my "tried and true" recipe file. Very good, very flavorful...and good for you! It has a nice, colorful presentation, too.

Provided by Likkel

Categories Lunch/Snacks

Time 25m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 13

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
sea salt & freshly ground black pepper
1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
2 cups water
2 cups chopped fresh spinach
1 cup roasted chicken, shredded (about 4 oz.) or 1 cup cooked shrimp, cut in pieces
1 medium avocado, peeled and chopped (about 1 cup)
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onion
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
8 kalamata olives, pitted and quartered

Steps:

Whisk together the first five ingredients in a small bowl to make the vinaigrette.
Boil the water and add the quinoa. Simmer for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed.
Stir in the spinach and remaining ingredients. Add the vinaigrette and toss gently. Serve at room temperature.
Suggest doubling recipe if making for a larger group of people.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 210.3, Fat 11.8, SaturatedFat 1.6, Sodium 58.1, Carbohydrate 22.6, Fiber 4.8, Sugar 0.5, Protein 5.2

Tips:

Select the right quinoa: Choose quinoa labeled "rinsed" or "pre-rinsed" to save time and effort. If you're using unrinsed quinoa, rinse it thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer before cooking.
Use a proper cooking method: The most common method is to cook quinoa in a pot with water or broth. You can also cook it in a rice cooker or instant pot. Follow the instructions on the package or in the recipe you're using.
Cook quinoa in a flavorful liquid: Instead of using plain water, try cooking quinoa in broth, coconut milk, or tomato juice for added flavor.
Season the quinoa: Salt is essential, but you can also add other spices and herbs like cumin, chili powder, paprika, or oregano.
Fluff the quinoa after cooking: Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains and make it light and airy.
Let the quinoa cool before using: If you're planning to use the quinoa in a salad or other dish that will be served cold, let it cool completely before adding it to the other ingredients.

Conclusion:

Quinoa is a versatile and nutritious grain that can be used in a variety of dishes. With its mild flavor and slightly nutty taste, it's a great addition to salads, bowls, soups, and stews. It can also be used as a side dish or as a breakfast cereal. Experiment with different recipes and cooking methods to find the ones you enjoy the most. Quinoa is a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.