Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (2024)

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This gluten-free, vegan Quinoa Stuffing recipe is healthier than traditional Thanksgiving stuffing and just as delicious, thanks to fresh herbs, sweet potato, and crunchy pecans.

Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (1)

this recipe

One thing I am thankful for every year at Thanksgiving, in addition to my family and friends, is the abundance of healthy food at our table.

Every year, I like to bring some healthier options to lighten up the traditional Thanksgiving classics like mashed potatoes and pie. I always bring this nutty quinoa stuffing. If you have any vegan, gluten-free or vegetarian eaters at your holiday table, they're going to love this dish. And if not, they'll still love it just as much!

Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (2)

Ingredients

This quinoa stuffing gets tons of seasonal flavor from some important ingredients, including:

  • Quinoa. Use any variety you like. I like the flavors of tri-color quinoa.
  • Vegetable broth
  • Sweet potato. Butternut squash also works
  • Shallot.You could also use diced onion or garlic.
  • Olive oil
  • Fresh herbs. I usethyme, rosemary, and sage.
  • Cinnamonfor a bit of warmth.
  • Chili pepper flakes. This is optional if you like some spice
  • Pecans. You can use any nut you like. Walnuts or hazelnuts are also delicious.

Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (3)

Fresh vs. Dried Spices for Stuffing

I like using these dried, hearty spices in my stuffing recipe because you can add them to the oven and not worry about them getting burned. Simply Organic makes my favorite spices. To finish the dish, that's when I'll use fresh herbs to highlight their delicate flavors, aromas, and textures.

Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (4)

Stuffing Mix-Ins

If you'd like to amp up the flavors and textures in this dish, try adding some simple mix-ins like:

  • Diced apples. I recommend a sturdy tart apple like Granny Smith.
  • Dried fruit. Dried cranberries, dates or golden raisins are great.
  • Fresh or frozen cranberries. Add them to the roasting pan with the squash.
  • Diced celery for added crunch.
  • Vegetarian sausage for protein.
  • Pepitas

Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (5)

Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Stuffing

For all you gluten-free eaters out there, this recipe is the perfect substitute for the classic Thanksgiving stuffing. It's light, flavorful, and packed with all the standard ingredients. But, you won't find any bread here. It's simply my dear friend quinoa.

Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (6)

Make-Ahead Stuffing

There's a lot to do on Thanksgiving day, so make things a bit easier for yourself by prepping this dish ahead of time. You can assemble the entire dish (leave out the nuts) up to two days ahead of time. Keep the stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to serve. You can add the nuts at the last minute to keep them crunchy. Serve this dish cold or at room temperature.

More Delicious Thanksgiving Recipes For Your Menu

  • Green Bean & Almond Quinoa Salad
  • Fall Quinoa Salad with Butternut Squash and Apples
  • Roasted Brussels Sprout Quinoa Salad
  • Simple Fall Salad with Roasted Acorn Squash + Pomegranates
  • Kale + Shredded Brussels Sprout Quinoa Salad

If you make this Quinoa Stuffing Recipe, be sure to let me know what you think with a comment below!

Healthy Quinoa Stuffing

5 from 23 votes

This healthy gluten-free quinoa stuffing is loaded with butternut squash, pecans, dried cranberries and tons of fresh and dried herbs for a better-for-you Thanksgiving side dish.

Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (7)

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Prep: 10 minutes minutes

Cook: 30 minutes minutes

Total: 40 minutes minutes

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Add quinoa and broth to a large pot. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce to simmer for 10 - 15 minutes until all the broth as been absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork and allow to cool while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

    Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (8)

  • While the quinoa is cooking, preheat the oven to 400ºF.

  • Toss your diced sweet potatoes (or squash), shallot and garlic in a large bowl. Add spices, salt and pepper, then drizzle with oil and toss to combine. Transfer to a baking sheet and roast for 15 - 20 minutes, flipping half way through.

    Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (9)

  • Assemble stuffing by combining cooked quinoa, potatoes and pecans in a large mixing bowl. Stir together and add apple cider vinegar, rosemary and thyme. Toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

    Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (10)

  • Serve cold or reheat slightly.

    Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (11)

Nutrition

Calories: 268kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 658mg | Potassium: 502mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 11640IU | Vitamin C: 3.9mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 2.9mg

cuisine: American

course: Side Dish

★★★★★

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Be sure to share a comment and rating to let us know!

Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (12)

Filed Under:

  • Dairy Free
  • Gluten-Free
  • Recipes
  • Sides
  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian
Healthy Quinoa Stuffing Recipe (Gluten-Free & Vegan) - Simply Quinoa (2024)

FAQs

How much quinoa per person? ›

How to cook quinoa perfectly every time. You'll need about 50g of quinoa per person (make sure to rinse it first) and chicken or vegetable stock. We can't emphasise using stock enough. It really makes a difference to the flavour, yet is subtle enough not to distract from your final dish.

What to eat with quinoa? ›

Quinoa's got the carbs covered, so you'll likely want to add some additional protein (eggs, lentils, beans, tofu, chicken), a fat (olive oil, nuts, butter, cheese), and, ideally, some kind of fruit or vegetable (broccoli, berries, squash, spinach).

Can you eat quinoa flakes raw? ›

Organic Quinoa Flakes are made from white quinoa that has been rolled and flattened. After this process, the quinoa flakes can be eaten just like the puffed quinoa without any need for cooking.

Is 1 cup of quinoa too much? ›

You can eat one-two cups of cooked quinoa in a day. You should avoid eating it if you experience stomachache, itchiness or vomiting after consuming it. A study by Harvard Public School of Health has reported that eating a bowl of quinoa daily is healthy and without any side effects.

Is 1 cup of quinoa enough? ›

Like rice, quinoa grows in size as it cooks; culinary and health experts alike tend to agree that 1/4 cup of uncooked quinoa is enough for one person. Because it's so rich in protein and fiber, even a small amount will fill you up for hours while keeping you energized. Win-win!

Why do I feel better after eating quinoa? ›

Quinoa is a nutritious choice for people looking for plant-based protein sources—it's a complete protein, containing all nine of the essential amino acids. Plus, its dietary fiber may help improve your digestion. Likewise, its fiber and protein content can help make you feel more satiated than other grains.

What seasonings are good on quinoa? ›

I find that some of the best seasonings for quinoa are cumin, dried bay leaf, turmeric, and salt, and black pepper. I also love to flavor it with fresh garlic and herbs such as parsley, dill, and cilantro. You can add the seasonings of your choice into the pot at the same time with the liquid and cook it as directed.

Is quinoa healthier than rice? ›

Quinoa is rich in both fiber and protein, contains a much higher amount of other nutrients, and has a similar fluffy texture to the rice. A cup of quinoa contains twice more protein and about 5 g more fiber than white rice. Quinoa contains fewer calories and carbohydrates than white rice.

Can I eat quinoa everyday? ›

A study by the Harvard Public School of Health stated that eating a bowl of quinoa daily may reduce the chances of early death risk from cancer, heart disease, respiratory ailments, diabetes, and other chronic diseases by 17%.

What is the best time to eat quinoa? ›

Quinoa can be consumed anytime – at breakfast, lunch or dinner. But it is best to eat healthy food like quinoa before going to bed. It induces sleep, because it relaxes the muscles, due to its high magnesium and protein content. “One can eat one-two cups of cooked quinoa in a day.

Does quinoa burn belly fat? ›

It is very healthy due to its plant chemical contents that cause the secretion of appetite-suppressing hormones that curb your appetite. 25. Quinoa: High in protein, quinoa keeps you full with its high levels of plant-based proteins. It decreases your appetite and promotes belly fat decrease.

Why does my stomach hurt after quinoa? ›

But for some people, eating quinoa may cause stomachaches, itchy skin, hives, and other common symptoms of food allergies. The seed and its coating contain the compound saponin, which could cause these symptoms. If you're allergic to quinoa or sensitive to saponin, it doesn't mean you have to miss out on tasty recipes.

What happens if you don't wash quinoa before eating? ›

It wasn't a huge difference in texture, but definitely noticeable. Rinsing quinoa definitely starts to hydrate the seeds. Flavor – In terms of flavor, the unrinsed quinoa definitely had a nuttier, earthier flavor, but I didn't find it bitter at all. The rinsed quinoa was definitely milder and the flavors more muted.

Can dogs eat quinoa? ›

But, can dogs eat quinoa? The answer is generally yes. The edible seed is actually an ingredient in some high-quality dry dog foods. Its strong nutritional profile makes it a healthy alternative to corn, grains like wheat, and soy—all starches that are often used to make kibble.

How much does 1 cup of quinoa serve? ›

One cup dry quinoa equals about 3 cups cooked quinoa. How much is 1 serving of quinoa? If you're serving quinoa as a side dish, plan for ¾ to 1 cup per person.

How many people does 1 cup of quinoa serve? ›

1 cup of uncooked quinoa will make 3 cups of cooked quinoa, which will serve between 3 and 4 people.

How much does 1 cup of quinoa make? ›

Now that your quinoa is rinsed or toasted, it's time to cook it. For 1 cup of uncooked quinoa, you'll want to use 2 cups of water—this will yield 3 cups of cooked quinoa. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the temperature to medium-low and pop the lid on securely.

How many servings does 1 cup dry quinoa make? ›

1 cup quinoa

This ratio yields 3 cups cooked quinoa or 6 (½ cup) servings. You can scale this ratio up or down, depending on how many servings you want. For the liquid, you can use water or broth. For the dry quinoa, use white, red, black or a blend of all three.

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