A refreshing, gluten-free, and vegan quinoa dish infused with bright lime juice and fresh cilantro. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect as a side dish, meal prep option, or a light meal on its own. The combination of citrus and herbs makes it a versatile accompaniment to a variety of dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and refreshing – The zesty lime and fresh cilantro make this dish vibrant and flavorful.
- Healthy and nutritious – Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Versatile – Works as a side dish, base for bowls, or even a salad ingredient.
- Naturally gluten-free and vegan – Perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Rinse the quinoa – Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness.
- Cook the quinoa – In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water (or broth) to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
- Let it rest – Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork.
- Add the flavor – Stir in lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and chopped cilantro. Mix well.
- Serve – Enjoy warm or chilled as a refreshing side dish.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño.
- Protein Boost – Mix in black beans, chickpeas, or grilled tofu.
- Extra Veggies – Toss in diced tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for added crunch.
- Nutty Flavor – Sprinkle with toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds.
- Creamy Version – Stir in mashed avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water if needed.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Yes! Couscous, rice, or bulgur wheat can be used as substitutes.
2. How can I prevent my quinoa from being mushy?
Make sure to use the correct water-to-quinoa ratio and let it rest after cooking before fluffing.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep and tastes even better after the flavors meld in the fridge.
4. What can I serve this with?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, tacos, or roasted vegetables.
5. Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is best for optimal flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch.
6. How do I make this dish oil-free?
Simply omit the olive oil or replace it with a splash of additional lime juice.
7. What’s the best way to enhance the lime flavor?
Use extra lime zest and a squeeze of lime just before serving.
8. Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is recommended for the best taste, but if using dried, use about 1 tablespoon.
9. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! It has mild flavors, but you can reduce the lime if needed for younger eaters.
10. Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Absolutely! Crumbled feta or cotija cheese adds a delicious salty contrast.
Conclusion
This Cilantro Lime Quinoa is a light, zesty, and refreshing dish that’s easy to prepare and incredibly versatile. Whether served as a side or a main, it’s packed with nutrition and flavor. Try this simple yet delicious recipe today for a healthy and satisfying meal!
Print
Cilantro Lime Quinoa
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing, gluten-free, and vegan quinoa dish infused with bright lime juice and fresh cilantro. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness.
- Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water (or broth) to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
- Rest and fluff: Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the quinoa with a fork.
- Add the flavors: Stir in lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic powder, black pepper, and chopped cilantro. Mix well.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or chilled as a refreshing side dish!
Notes
- Substitute half the cilantro with fresh parsley for a milder flavor.
- Add diced avocado or black beans for a heartier dish.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; serve cold or reheat lightly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican, Healthy
