Description
Garlic Butter Quinoa is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish featuring fluffy quinoa infused with fragrant sautéed garlic, butter, and fresh herbs. This recipe combines the nutty texture of quinoa with the richness of butter and the brightness of lemon juice, making it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals or a satisfying light main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh sieve to remove any bitterness. Drain well.
- Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer Quinoa: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy and tender.
- Heat Butter and Oil: While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden brown, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Combine Quinoa and Garlic Butter: Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet with the garlic butter mixture. Stir well to combine and coat the quinoa evenly.
- Season: Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste. Mix in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter for additional creaminess.
- Add Fresh Ingredients: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Add Cheese: If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the quinoa, and stir gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish or a light main course.
Notes
- Rinsing the quinoa removes its natural bitterness and improves the final flavor.
- You can substitute vegetable broth with water for a lighter taste.
- The Parmesan cheese is optional and adds a savory depth; omit for a dairy-free version.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and add a mild heat; adjust to your preferred spice level.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture.