Description
This warm and comforting Cinnamon Apple Quinoa combines fluffy quinoa with sweet, caramelized apples and a hint of cinnamon, making it a nutritious and delicious option for breakfast or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or almond milk
- 1 medium apple, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh fruit and additional nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer for about 30 seconds to remove saponin.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water or almond milk.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to steam.
- Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside.
- In a medium skillet, add the diced apple (skin on for texture, if desired).
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the apples.
- Add maple syrup or honey to the skillet.
- Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples soften but retain some shape.
- If using, add nuts and dried fruits during the last minute of cooking.
- Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet with the apple mixture and stir gently to combine.
- Drizzle in the vanilla extract and stir again.
- Cook together on low heat for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Spoon the mixture into bowls.
- Top with fresh fruit, additional nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
- Enjoy warm as a comforting breakfast or snack!
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes