Breakfast Quinoa with Strawberries

Name: Breakfast Quinoa with Strawberries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups water or milk; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts); 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional); Additional honey or maple syrup to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love starting my day with a hearty and nutritious meal, which is why I gravitate towards this Breakfast Quinoa with Strawberries. Packed with protein and fiber, quinoa sets a solid foundation for energizing my morning. The addition of fresh strawberries adds a delightful sweetness and vibrant color, turning breakfast into a feast. It's incredibly easy to make, and I can whip it up in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends alike. Plus, it's gluten-free and can be customized with any fruits or toppings I have on hand!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-19T17:38:24.083Z

When I first experimented with quinoa for breakfast, I was amazed at how versatile it is. I’ve found that soaking the quinoa for about 30 minutes before cooking can significantly enhance its texture, making it fluffy and light. It’s a glorious base for any toppings I desire. This combination of quinoa and strawberries not only looks beautiful but also tastes amazing.

What I particularly love is how quickly it comes together. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, I can have a wholesome dish ready to fuel my day. It's a wonderful way to balance indulgence with health, and I always feel satisfied after a bowl!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutritious base of protein-packed quinoa
Fresh, juicy strawberries add natural sweetness
Customize with your favorite nuts and seeds

Understanding Quinoa

Quinoa is a nutritional powerhouse that serves as an excellent base for this breakfast dish. It is gluten-free and an outstanding source of protein, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a hearty meal to start the day. When cooking quinoa, it's crucial to rinse it thoroughly under cold water. This removes the saponins, a natural coating that can impart a bitter taste. For optimal texture, use a ratio of 1 part quinoa to 2 parts liquid, ensuring it cooks fluffy and absorbs all the flavors.

As quinoa cooks, you'll notice it will release small spirals, which indicate it's ready. This fluffiness not only enhances the dish's mouthfeel but also allows it to soak up any added flavors, making it more delicious. If you're looking for an alternative to water, try using almond milk or coconut milk for a creamier texture and added flavor. Both options complement the strawberries beautifully while keeping the dish dairy-free.

Enhancing Flavor with Toppings

The toppings of this quinoa dish really elevate its flavor profile. Fresh strawberries lend a bright, juicy sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the nuttiness of quinoa. When preparing your strawberries, choose ripe ones for maximum sweetness and vibrant flavor. If you're in the mood for variety, feel free to substitute strawberries with other seasonal fruits like blueberries, bananas, or peaches, which can also bring their unique sweetness and colors to the table.

Incorporating nuts and seeds not only adds a textural contrast but also boosts the nutritional value. Almonds and walnuts are great choices; they bring healthy fats and extra protein to the dish. If you prefer, you could use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version. Furthermore, sprinkling chia seeds provides a delicious crunch and offers Omega-3 fatty acids. Just remember to adjust the amount of sweetener you use, as different toppings may influence the overall sweetness of your breakfast.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Quinoa:

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water or milk
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping:

1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
Additional honey or maple syrup to taste

Preparation Steps:

Instructions

How to Prepare:

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water (or milk). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.

Add Flavors

Stir in the honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract, mixing well. Let it sit covered for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve with Toppings

Spoon the quinoa into bowls, topping with fresh strawberries, chopped nuts, and chia seeds. Drizzle additional honey or syrup on top if desired.

Enjoy Your Breakfast!

Pro Tips

For added nutrition, try mixing in other fruits like blueberries or bananas. You can also store any leftover quinoa in the fridge for up to 3 days
just reheat with a splash of milk for a quick breakfast.

Make-Ahead Options

This breakfast quinoa can easily be prepared ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for busy mornings. To do this, simply cook a larger batch of quinoa, allowing it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Properly stored in an airtight container, cooked quinoa can last up to five days. In the morning, reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to restore moisture and fluffiness.

If you prefer prepping toppings in advance, you can slice your strawberries the night before. Just keep them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge to maintain freshness. You can also portion out nuts and seeds into small containers, so you have everything ready to go first thing in the morning.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when cooking quinoa is ending up with a gummy texture. This usually happens when quinoa is not rinsed properly or if there's too much liquid used during cooking. To fix this, ensure you rinse your quinoa thoroughly before cooking and stick to the recommended 1:2 ratio of quinoa to water or milk. If you've ended up with a gummy batch, try fluffing it with a fork and then spreading it out on a baking sheet to let it cool and dry out slightly before serving.

If you've made it too sweet or too bland, consider balancing the flavors. For added sweetness, a dash of cinnamon can complement the flavors beautifully without overpowering. Conversely, if it's too sweet, a pinch of salt can help to balance it out and enhance all the flavors. Adjusting toppings can also help find that perfect balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the quinoa and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in the morning and top with fresh fruits.

→ Is quinoa a good breakfast option?

Absolutely! Quinoa is high in protein and fiber, making it a very nutritious option to kickstart your day.

→ Can I substitute the strawberries?

Yes, feel free to use any seasonal fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or bananas!

→ What if I’m allergic to nuts?

You can easily omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead.