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Instant Pot Holiday Herb Quinoa Pilaf

  • Author: Christina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Pressure Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A festive, vibrant dish combining fluffy quinoa and fresh herbs, perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion where flavor and warmth are desired.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup quinoa (white or tri-color)
  • 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove its natural coating called saponin.
  2. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for about three minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Stir in the rinsed quinoa along with vegetable broth, ensuring everything is well combined.
  4. Add chopped parsley and thyme, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
  5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot with the valve set to sealing position. Cook on high pressure for five minutes, followed by a natural release of ten minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
  6. Carefully open the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Serve in bowls or platters, garnishing with extra herbs if desired.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (185g)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 240mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Customize herbs based on personal preferences; rosemary or sage can add unique flavors. For added sweetness, toss in dried cranberries; nuts can provide a delightful crunch. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.