Cooking with quinoa: an easy weeknight side dish

Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water.

Fill a medium pot with water about two-thirds full and add a pinch of salt.

Bring the water to a boil.

Add the rinsed quinoa to the boiling water.

Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until the quinoa is soft with a little chewiness.

Check for doneness visually; a little white ring will develop around the kernel when fully cooked.

Strain the quinoa and return it to the pot or place it in a separate bowl.

Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the quinoa.

Season with salt to taste.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice.

Mix in 2 tablespoons of fresh cilantro, or any herb available.

Taste the quinoa and adjust seasonings as necessary.

Serve the quinoa warm or cold as a side salad.

Equipment Needed

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