This Garlic Butter Quinoa is a simple way to turn a basic grain into a flavorful, versatile side dish. Cooked in low-sodium broth with garlic and butter, it comes out fluffy, savory, and perfect for pairing with just about any meal.
Quinoa is a simple way to switch things up from white rice, with about twice the protein and several times more fiber to help make meals feel more satisfying. It’s a versatile, easy-cooking grain that works well with everything from roasted vegetables to your favorite proteins.
This Garlic Butter Quinoa recipe takes it a step further by building flavor right from the start. Instead of cooking quinoa in plain water, it’s toasted with butter and garlic, then simmered in broth, giving it a rich, savory flavor and a light, fluffy texture that’s anything but boring.
Table of contents
Ingredients
- Quinoa: White quinoa cooks up soft and fluffy and is the best choice for this recipe.
- Low-sodium broth: Use low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth for more flavor than water while keeping the sodium in check.
- Butter: Adds richness, but you can swap it with olive oil if you prefer.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Adjust to taste depending on the saltiness of your broth.
- Fresh herbs (optional): A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds a fresh finish.
Rinsing Quinoa
Quinoa has a natural coating called saponin that can give it a bitter or soapy taste if it’s not rinsed away. If the package does not say that the quinoa has been pre-rinsed, it’s best to rinse it yourself before cooking.
Place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water for 20 to 30 seconds. Shake off any excess water before using.
How to Make Garlic Butter Quinoa
- Sauté the garlic: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 1 minute. Do not let it brown.
- Toast the quinoa: Stir in the rinsed quinoa and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring, to lightly toast it.
- Simmer until tender: Add the broth, salt, and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
- Rest and fluff: Remove from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in herbs, if using.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Quinoa is a great swap for rice in bowl-style meals. Try it in place of rice in my Chicken and Roasted Vegetable Bowls or with my Easy Ground Beef and Broccoli.
It’s also delicious with a scoop of Taco Skillet or served on the side with Skillet Parmesan Chicken and Zucchini, Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables, or Lemon Basil Baked Cod.
Storage
Store leftover quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm it in the microwave, stirring once or twice, until heated through. This helps bring back its light, fluffy texture.
It can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature in grain bowls or salads, making it a great option for meal prep lunches.
Garlic Butter Quinoa
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (white quinoa recommended), rinsed well
- 2 cups low-sodium broth, chicken or vegetable
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic, about 2 cloves
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons minced parsley or chopped chives, optional
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water for 20 to 30 seconds..
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a medium saucepan over MEDIUM-LOW heat. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute just until fragrant (don’t brown).
- Stir in the rinsed quinoa and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring, to lightly toast it.
- Add the broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 12 to 15 minutes, or until the broth has been absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
- Remove from the heat, cover the pan, and rest for 5 minutes. Uncover and fluff with a fork.
- Fold in the herbs, if using. If the quinoa seems a little dry, drizzle with up to 1 teaspoon olive oil while fluffing, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated using generic ingredients, and is an estimate not a guarantee. For more accurate results, please refer to the labels on your ingredients at home. All information provided regarding nutrition on this website is intended to be used for informational purposes only. Content related to nutrition is not medical advice nor is it intended to replace medical advice. The website is not intended to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any disease, condition, illness, or injury. Before beginning any diet program, modifying your diet, or making changes to the diet of a child in your care, including following the nutrition information available on the website, you should seek advice from a licensed professional.
More Easy Grains
Brown Rice Pilaf
Farro Pilaf with Toasted Nuts
Yellow Rice Pilaf
