How To Make Quinoa For Salad

5 from 1 vote

The simple way to make fluffy quinoa that's perfect for using in salad recipes.

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword quinoa

Dietary Restrictions Dairy-Free, Egg Free, Gluten-Free, Vegan

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Cooling Time 20

Total Time 40

Servings

Calories 104.27kcal

Place 1 cup quinoa in a mesh sieve and rinse it with cold running water for 30 seconds to a minute or until the water runs clear. Shake the sieve to remove all of the excess water from the grains (they will hold quite a bit).
Transfer the rinsed grains to the saucepan and add 2 cups water and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover tightly with the lid.
Simmer the quinoa for 15 minutes, and remove from the heat. Take off the lid and use a fork to thoroughly fluff the grains. Set aside to cool for 15 to 20 minutes or until they are at room temperature, and slightly tacky to dry to the touch.
Only when the quinoa is dry and cool should you use it in salads.