Immerse yourself in a fusion of flavors with this unique guacamole-style quinoa recipe. Combining the protein-rich grains of quinoa with the creamy texture of avocados and the tangy taste of fresh limes, this dish is a delightful twist on traditional guacamole. It's a hearty, healthy alternative that's perfect for those seeking a filling meal or a substantial side dish.
Photos of Guacamole-Style Quinoa Recipe
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, and chicken stock. Quinoa, a grain rich in protein and fiber, can be found in the grains section of most supermarkets. Fresh produce like avocados, limes, and cilantro are typically available year-round. If you can't find fresh jalapenos, you can substitute with canned ones or use green chilies for a milder heat.
Ingredients for Guacamole-Style Quinoa Recipe
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic to bring out their flavors.
Sweet onion: Adds a nice sweetness to balance the tartness of the lime.
Garlic cloves: Gives a robust flavor to the quinoa.
Quinoa: A super grain that is protein-rich and adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
Lime: Adds a tangy kick and pairs well with the avocado.
Chicken stock: Used for cooking the quinoa, infuses more flavor compared to water.
Cilantro: Gives a fresh and herby taste.
Grape tomatoes: Adds a pop of color and sweetness.
Avocado: Provides creaminess and a rich taste.
Jalapeno pepper: Adds a bit of heat to balance the richness of the avocado.
One reader, Kellen Lynch says:
This guacamole-style quinoa recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The creamy avocado, zesty lime, and spicy jalapeno create a delightful explosion of taste. It's a healthy and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. I highly recommend trying it out!
Essential Techniques for Preparing Guacamole-Style Quinoa
How to cook quinoa: Quinoa should be rinsed under cold water before cooking to remove its natural coating, which can make it taste bitter. Use a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to liquid, and bring to a boil before reducing the heat and simmering for about 15 minutes.
How to dice an avocado: Cut the avocado in half lengthwise, then remove the pit. Using a knife, carefully make lengthwise and crosswise cuts in the avocado halves, then scoop out the diced flesh with a spoon.
How to seed a jalapeno pepper: Cut the jalapeno in half lengthwise, then use a small spoon to scrape out the seeds and membranes. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling the jalapeno to avoid transferring the spicy oils to your skin.
How To Make Guacamole-Style Quinoa
This flavorful quinoa recipe is just as creamy and refreshing as guacamole! Whip up a belly-filling batch of this quinoa in just 30 minutes.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tspolive oil
- ½sweet onion,diced
- 2garlic cloves,minced, or more to taste
- 1cupquinoa
- 1lime,juiced
- 1¾cupschicken stock,or as needed
- 6tbspfresh cilantro,chopped
- 6grape tomatoes,quartered
- 1avocado,cubed
- 1jalapeno pepper,diced
Instructions
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Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
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Cook and stir the onion and garlic in the hot oil for 5 minutes until slightly browned.
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Stir the quinoa into the onion mixture, then cook for 30 seconds until the quinoa is lightly browned.
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Squeeze the lime juice into a 2-cup measuring cup, then pour in enough chicken stock to make 2 cups of liquid.
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Pour the chicken stock mixture over the quinoa, then bring to a boil.
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Reduce the heat, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
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Remove the saucepan from the heat.
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Chill the quinoa in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
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Fold the cilantro, tomatoes, avocado, and jalapeno pepper into the quinoa mixture.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 206.97kcal
- Fat: 8.31g
- Saturated Fat: 1.25g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.70g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.79g
- Carbohydrates: 27.87g
- Fiber: 5.08g
- Sugar: 3.41g
- Protein: 6.97g
- Cholesterol: 2.10mg
- Sodium: 107.76mg
- Calcium: 32.91mg
- Potassium: 490.27mg
- Iron: 1.85mg
- Vitamin A: 14.48µg
- Vitamin C: 13.47mg
Mastering the Art of Quinoa: A Crucial Technique Tip
When preparing the quinoa, make sure to rinse it thoroughly under cold water before cooking. This helps to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter or soapy. Using a fine mesh strainer, rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. This will ensure that your guacamole-style quinoa has the best possible flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Quinoa Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Utilize one pot for cooking the quinoa and sautéing the vegetables to minimize cleanup.
Efficient chopping: Use a food processor to quickly chop the onions, garlic, and jalapeno pepper for convenience.
Multitask: While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the other ingredients to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Organized workspace: Keep all the ingredients and utensils organized and within reach to work efficiently.
Quick chill: Speed up the chilling process by spreading the cooked quinoa on a baking sheet for faster cooling.
Flavor shortcut: Use pre-made guacamole as a flavor shortcut instead of chopping and mashing all the ingredients separately.
Substitute Ingredients For Guacamole-Style Quinoa Recipe
quinoa - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice has a similar nutty flavor and chewy texture, making it a suitable substitute for quinoa in this recipe.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used as a vegetarian-friendly alternative to chicken stock, providing a similar depth of flavor to the dish.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, offering a fresh and slightly peppery flavor to the dish.
grape tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be used as a substitute for grape tomatoes, providing a similar sweet and juicy flavor to the dish.
avocado - Substitute with mashed peas: Mashed peas can be used as a substitute for avocado, offering a creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
jalapeno pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell pepper can be used as a milder substitute for jalapeno pepper, adding a subtle crunch and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
Presentation Tips for Guacamole-Style Quinoa
Elevate the quinoa: Present the quinoa in a neat and compact mound on the plate to showcase its texture and color.
Garnish with avocado slices: Arrange thin, elegant slices of ripe avocado on top of the quinoa for a visually appealing and creamy element.
Drizzle with cilantro-infused oil: Create a beautiful drizzle pattern around the quinoa using a cilantro-infused oil to add a burst of flavor and a touch of sophistication.
Garnish with jalapeno rings: Carefully place delicate rings of jalapeno on top of the quinoa to add a pop of color and a hint of heat to the dish.
Sprinkle with roasted tomato petals: Arrange roasted tomato petals around the quinoa for a burst of vibrant color and a sweet, tangy flavor.
Lime wedge on the side: Place a small lime wedge on the side of the plate for a fresh and zesty touch, allowing the diners to squeeze it over the dish as desired.
Use a minimalist plate: Opt for a simple, white plate to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out and take center stage.
Add a touch of microgreens: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens on top of the quinoa for a touch of freshness and a subtle hint of earthy flavor.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a few edible flowers as a delicate and visually stunning garnish to add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Use a sleek, modern serving spoon: Choose a sleek and modern serving spoon to portion and present the quinoa, adding a touch of sophistication to the plating.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Quinoa Recipes
Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking vessel with a handle and often a lid, used for cooking on a stovetop. It is ideal for cooking the quinoa and onion mixture.
Measuring cup: A measuring cup is used to accurately measure and pour liquids, such as lime juice and chicken stock, ensuring precise quantities in the recipe.
Chef's knife: A chef's knife is essential for chopping and dicing ingredients like garlic, cilantro, tomatoes, and avocado with precision and ease.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing ingredients, protecting the countertop and ensuring safety while using the chef's knife.
Mixing spoon: A mixing spoon is necessary for stirring the quinoa, onion, and garlic mixture, as well as folding in the cilantro, tomatoes, avocado, and jalapeno pepper.
Citrus juicer: A citrus juicer is useful for efficiently extracting the juice from the lime, providing a fresh and tangy flavor to the quinoa dish.
Refrigerator: The refrigerator is essential for chilling the quinoa mixture, allowing the flavors to meld and enhancing the overall taste and texture of the dish.
Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Guacamole-Style Quinoa
To store leftover guacamole-style quinoa, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The avocado may start to brown slightly, but it will still be safe to eat and delicious.
If you want to freeze the quinoa for later use, it's best to leave out the avocado and tomatoes. These ingredients don't freeze well and can become mushy when thawed.
To freeze, let the cooked quinoa cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer. The quinoa will keep for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen quinoa, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. You can also defrost it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until it's heated through.
Once thawed, stir in freshly diced avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro to restore the dish's original texture and flavor. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice if needed.
If the thawed quinoa seems dry, add a splash of chicken stock or water to help moisten it before reheating.
The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Quinoa Dishes
The best way to reheat leftover guacamole-style quinoa is to use a microwave. Place the desired amount of quinoa in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. The damp paper towel will help prevent the quinoa from drying out and becoming crunchy.
Another great method is to reheat the quinoa in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of olive oil or chicken stock to the skillet and heat over medium heat. Add the leftover quinoa and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. This method will help crisp up the quinoa slightly and give it a nice texture.
If you prefer a more hands-off approach, you can also reheat the guacamole-style quinoa in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the quinoa in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method is great if you're reheating a large amount of quinoa at once.
For a quick and easy option, you can also enjoy the leftover guacamole-style quinoa cold, straight from the refrigerator. The flavors will have had time to meld together, and the cold temperature will be refreshing, especially on a hot day. This is a great option for a quick and healthy lunch or snack.
If you find that your leftover quinoa has dried out a bit in the refrigerator, you can add a splash of lime juice or chicken stock before reheating to help moisten it back up. This will also help revive the flavors and make it taste fresh again.
Interesting Trivia About Guacamole-Style Quinoa
The avocado in this guacamole-style quinoa recipe is a great source of healthy fats and essential nutrients, such as potassium and fiber. Avocados are also rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, quinoa is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making this dish a nutritious and satisfying option for a balanced diet.
Budget-Friendly: Is This Quinoa Recipe Economical?
The cost-effectiveness of this guacamole-style quinoa recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of ingredients in your area. While quinoa and avocado can be pricier, the recipe yields a substantial amount and provides a nutritious, filling dish. The addition of chicken stock and fresh cilantro may slightly increase the cost, but the overall value is high considering the health benefits and flavor. On a scale of 1-10, I'd rate this recipe a solid 8 for its balance of cost, nutrition, and taste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-20.
Is This Quinoa Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This guacamole-style quinoa recipe is a nutritious and well-balanced dish. Quinoa, the main ingredient, is a superfood packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The addition of avocado provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the lime juice and cilantro offer a burst of vitamin C and antioxidants. The tomatoes and jalapeno pepper contribute to the dish's overall nutritional value by providing vitamins, minerals, and a metabolism-boosting kick.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used to sauté the onion and garlic, or opt for a healthier cooking method like steaming or water sautéing
- Replace the chicken stock with a low-sodium vegetable broth to make the dish vegan-friendly and reduce the overall sodium content
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the recipe by adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added fiber and nutrients
- Use a mix of different colored tomatoes to enhance the visual appeal and provide a wider range of antioxidants
- Experiment with other healthy add-ins like chopped nuts, seeds, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the added fat and calories
The Editor's Opinion on Guacamole-Style Quinoa
This guacamole-style quinoa recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of creamy avocado, zesty lime, and spicy jalapeno adds a refreshing twist to the nutty quinoa. The addition of fresh cilantro and juicy grape tomatoes brings a burst of freshness to the dish. The chilling step allows the flavors to meld, creating a harmonious and refreshing dish. This recipe is a perfect balance of healthy and delicious, making it a versatile and satisfying option for any occasion.
Enhance Your Guacamole-Style Quinoa Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Guacamole-Style Quinoa
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas for a Guacamole-Style Quinoa Meal
Why trust this Guacamole-Style Quinoa Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional guacamole, incorporating the wholesome goodness of quinoa with the vibrant flavors of avocado, cilantro, and lime. The use of chicken stock infuses the quinoa with rich, savory notes, while the addition of jalapeno pepper provides a subtle kick of heat. With the freshness of grape tomatoes and the aromatic blend of garlic and sweet onion, this recipe promises a harmonious fusion of textures and flavors, making it a trustworthy and enticing choice for any culinary enthusiast.
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