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Simple Curry Spiced Quinoa Recipe

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4.1 from 9 reviews

This Simple Curry Spiced Quinoa recipe is a vibrant, flavorful, and nutritious dish that combines fluffy quinoa cooked with fragrant curry powder and vegetable broth, then tossed with fresh herbs, chickpeas, golden raisins, and slivered almonds. Perfect as a hearty side or a light main, it offers an easy way to enjoy a wholesome, plant-based meal packed with protein and texture.

Ingredients

Grains and Broth

  • 1 cup uncooked white quinoa
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup water

Spices and Liquids

  • 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • Juice from 1 lemon (~2 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon red vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh and Dry Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chopped herbs (green onion, cilantro, parsley)
  • 1/2 cup golden raisins
  • 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Rinse Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold running water using a fine mesh strainer to remove its natural bitterness and any debris.
  2. Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa, water, vegetable broth, and curry powder. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let cook for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
  3. Let Quinoa Rest: Turn off the heat but keep the pot covered. Allow the quinoa to sit undisturbed for an additional 5 minutes to steam and finish cooking, which helps achieve a fluffy texture. After resting, fluff the quinoa gently with a fork.
  4. Mix Ingredients: Transfer the cooked quinoa to a large mixing bowl. Add lemon juice, red vinegar, olive oil, chopped herbs, golden raisins, drained chickpeas, slivered almonds, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Notes

  • Rinsing quinoa before cooking helps eliminate its natural bitterness.
  • Feel free to substitute fresh herbs based on your preference or what you have on hand.
  • This dish can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, making it versatile for different occasions.
  • For extra protein, consider adding grilled tofu or chicken if not vegan.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.