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Close-up of crispy toasted quinoa in a bowl with salad.

Crunchy Roasted Quinoa

Transform cooked quinoa into a crispy, nutty topping for salads, bowls, and snacks with this easy oven-roasted method!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Snack, Topping
Cuisine Gluten-Free, Healthy, Vegan
Servings 1 cup cooked quinoa
Calories 230 kcal

Equipment

  • Fine Mesh Sieve
  • Saucepan
  • Baking Sheet
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

Crunchy Quinoa Base

  • 1/2 cup quinoa uncooked, rinsed well
  • 3/4 cup water or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil optional, for toasting
  • 1/4 tsp salt optional

Instructions
 

  • Rinse quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh sieve to remove bitterness.
  • Optional: Toast quinoa in a dry skillet (or with a bit of olive oil) over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until golden and fragrant.
  • In a saucepan, combine toasted quinoa with 3/4 cup water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
  • Spread cooked quinoa on a baking sheet and let cool for 10 minutes to release steam.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roast quinoa for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until dry and crispy.
  • Let cool and store in an airtight container. Sprinkle over salads, soups, smoothie bowls, or enjoy as a snack.

Notes

For extra flavor, toss quinoa with your favorite seasonings like cinnamon for sweet or paprika for savory before baking. Store cooled crunchy quinoa in a sealed jar for up to 1 week.
Keyword Crispy Quinoa, Crunchy Quinoa, Roasted Quinoa