Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa
Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Favorites
I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa because it's a simple yet satisfying dish that never fails to impress. The combination of earthy mushrooms sautéed in rich garlic butter, paired with fluffy quinoa, creates a wonderfully aromatic experience. As a quick weeknight meal or a side dish for a special occasion, it fits perfectly into my busy schedule. Plus, it’s healthy and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic choice for any meal.
When I first experimented with Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa, I knew I was onto something special. The method of cooking quinoa in vegetable broth while sautéing mushrooms in garlic butter added layers of flavor that elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Each forkful bursts with taste, and I was thrilled to discover how easy it is to whip up in just 30 minutes.
One tip I discovered is to let the mushrooms get nicely browned before adding the quinoa. This not only enhances their flavor but also gives the entire dish a beautiful, rich color. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of freshness!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich garlic flavor that enhances every bite
- Nutritious quinoa that’s high in protein
- Simple ingredients that come together quickly
Mastering Quinoa Cooking
To achieve perfectly cooked quinoa, remember the essential rinse before cooking. This clears away the natural saponins which can lend a bitter flavor. After rinsing, utilizing a 2:1 ratio of vegetable broth to quinoa ensures that the grains absorb enough moisture for optimal fluffiness. Keep an eye on it as it simmers; the quinoa is ready when you see tiny spirals, known as germ, separating from the seed.
If you find your quinoa turning out too mushy, try reducing the cooking time by a couple of minutes. Every brand and type of quinoa can behave a bit differently, so adjustments might be necessary. Additionally, explore different broth options like mushroom or chicken broth for added flavor, but be mindful of the salt content, especially if your broth is already seasoned.
Enhancing Sautéed Mushrooms
When sautéing mushrooms, ensure your skillet is hot before adding them to prevent them from stewing in their own juices. I like to use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution, which helps achieve the coveted golden brown color. Stir occasionally, but allow the mushrooms to sit untouched for a couple of minutes to build that delicious caramelization that enhances their natural umami flavor.
Don’t overlook the importance of thyme in this recipe; its earthy notes complement both the garlic and mushrooms beautifully. If thyme isn’t on hand, fresh rosemary or even a pinch of dried oregano can work as substitutes. For an extra layer of flavor, a splash of white wine can be added to the pan after the mushrooms are browned—let it reduce for about a minute before combining with the quinoa.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
For the Garlic Butter Mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Steps
Cook the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
Sauté the Mushrooms
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and thyme, cooking until the mushrooms are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine and Serve
Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with mushrooms. Stir to combine, season with salt, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor!
Storage Tips
Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it a great make-ahead option for meal prep. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent the quinoa from drying out, and microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.
If you anticipate leftover quinoa, you can freeze it as well. Portion the cooked quinoa into freezer-safe bags, pressing out excess air before sealing. It will keep well for about three months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and it should taste almost as fresh as when it was first made.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or a simple green salad. For added protein, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or baked tofu. The flavors meld perfectly, and their textures provide a delightful contrast to the fluffy quinoa and earthy mushrooms.
For a heartier meal, incorporate sautéed spinach or kale into the dish during the final cooking step. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a beautiful pop of color. A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese on top before serving can elevate the dish further, creating an indulgent yet healthy plate that's sure to impress.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I meal prep this dish?
Absolutely! Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
→ Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, using chicken broth will deepen the flavor further, especially if you’re not concerned about keeping it vegetarian.
→ Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
→ What can I serve with this quinoa dish?
Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side for roasted vegetables.
Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa
I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Mushroom Quinoa because it's a simple yet satisfying dish that never fails to impress. The combination of earthy mushrooms sautéed in rich garlic butter, paired with fluffy quinoa, creates a wonderfully aromatic experience. As a quick weeknight meal or a side dish for a special occasion, it fits perfectly into my busy schedule. Plus, it’s healthy and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic choice for any meal.
Created by: Cassandra Reed
Recipe Type: Natural Healthy Meals Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
For the Garlic Butter Mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How-To Steps
Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and thyme, cooking until the mushrooms are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with mushrooms. Stir to combine, season with salt, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g