Simple Tricolor Quinoa Recipes

Tricolor quinoa is a fun multi-colored quinoa. If you are on the hunt for simple tricolor quinoa recipes, you have come to the right place. Let me share quite a few recipes you can use as options for your quinoa.

One thing to note is tricolor quinoa can easily be used in any recipe that calls for regular white quinoa or even red quinoa. It cooks up pretty much the same.

Quinoa is often thought of as a whole grain. This isn't true though, it is actually a seed! Call it when you like, it is a versatile food that goes well in so many dishes. There are several types of quinoa that come in a variety of colors, but keep reading to find out exactly what tricolor quinoa is.

What is tricolor quinoa?

It is a blend of black quinoa, white quinoa, and red quinoa. I like to use this blend because while white and red quinoa is easy to find at most grocery stores, black quinoa is not.

With this blend, you get all 3 in one package.

The nutty flavor is what most people are looking for when they cook using quinoa.

Quinoa is a healthy seed that is a complete protein, meaning it has all 9 essential amino acids. Tricolor quinoa has 6 grams of protein per ¼ cup. That is pretty good!

Where can you buy tricolored quinoa?

In my area, it is very easy to find in almost any major store- Walmart, Winco, Fred Meyer, Whole Foods, etc. If you are wondering where to look in your store, the rice aisle is always a good place to start. If not there, try the gluten-free section.

Bob's Red Mill, Ancient Harvest, and Organics are all common brands you should be able to find locally.

Quinoa can also be ordered online as well if you aren't able to find it at your local businesses.

How to cook quinoa

First off, there are 2 thoughts on rinsing quinoa before cooking. Many people think it has a slightly bitter taste that is taken away when it is rinsed. Personally, these are just my thoughts, I don't feel like it has made a difference for me one way or the other. So, I skip this step and just add it right in. Most quinoa you buy packed is already rinsed several times, so I just don't worry about it. Quinoa can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge.

The most common ratio for cooking quinoa is 1 cup quinoa and 2 cup liquid. The liquid can be anything- water, chicken broth, vegetable broth, etc.

Cooktop method

One of my favorite methods for cooking quinoa is this method from Cookie and Kate. It is simple to make and creates fluffy quinoa that is delicious. If you have had mushy quinoa, this is not one of those recipes.

Mine has always taken about 12-15 minutes to cook. All you need is the quinoa, liquid, and a medium saucepan. No special equipment.

Rice cooker

Rice cookers are great for cooking quinoa and so hands-off, which I love as I am generally so busy! The recipe from the Conscious Plant kitchen shows just how easy it is.

Add the ingredients, set it to cook, and walk away. If you have a rice cooker, this is a great way to make use of it.

Instant Pot

I use my Instant Pot religiously. While you can make quinoa in an Instant Pot, it isn't my favorite method. I am including it here, just in case you want to give it a try. This recipe from Minimalistic Baker is a really simple one to try.

Tricolor quinoa salad recipes

• The first salad from The Devil Wears Salad is a vegan quinoa salad loaded with bell peppers, lemon juice, lemon zest, eggplant, etc. It comes together quickly and is so pretty! Protein-packed quinoa really wows in this salad.
• Taste of Home also has a really pretty salad with spinach, tomatoes, etc. It is dairy-free, gluten-free, and looks delish! This would make the perfect side dish or light meal. Simply toss quinoa with the other ingredients and serve.
• This Mediterranean quinoa salad from Cooking with Ayeh looks so good too. This one is made with kalamata olive, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, etc.

Tricolor quinoa casserole recipes

• This black bean and quinoa casserole is the perfect casserole that uses budget-friendly black beans. This makes a great main dish. If you are on a vegan diet, simply swap the cheese for vegan cheese.
• I am really excited to try this recipe from Lexi's clean kitchen for quinoa and broccoli casserole- yum!! This is a tri-color quinoa recipe to try.

Buddha bowls

You can use quinoa for crafting your favorite breakfast bowls. This one from Eat with Clarity looks really good to me! Or how about this cinnamon quinoa breakfast bowl from Love and Lemons?

Or what about putting together your own bowl? Start with the base of cooked quinoa, and to it add your toppings. Sweet potatoes are a popular topping along with fresh herbs, fresh garlic, or even green onions. I also love the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, or how about red onion? Drizzle it all with olive oil, sherry vinegar, etc.

I hope that this post has given you many ideas on how to use your tri-colored quinoa to create some amazing dishes. It is so easy to use and so tasty!