Blueberry Breakfast Quinoa is a healthy and tasty start to your day. It mixes cooked quinoa with fresh blueberries, creating a bright, fruity flavor perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
I like adding a little honey or maple syrup on top, and I sometimes sprinkle nuts for crunch. It’s so easy I could make it in my sleep—and I often do!
If you want, serve it warm or cold. It keeps well in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy mornings.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries add natural sweetness and juiciness. I prefer fresh for their bright color, but frozen works well—just thaw and drain. You can swap with raspberries or chopped strawberries for a different fruity flavor.
Quinoa: The star of this dish, quinoa is nutty and fluffy when cooked. Rinse it well to remove bitterness. If you don’t have quinoa, cooked oats or millet make good substitutes that give a similar texture.
Milk: Dairy or plant-based milk, like almond or soy, makes the quinoa creamy. I like almond milk for a subtle flavor. For a richer treat, try coconut milk as a tasty substitute, and stay mindful of added sugars.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Sweetens the dish naturally. Personal tip: I usually prefer honey, but maple syrup lends a distinctive earthy sweetness. You can swap with agave nectar or a little brown sugar for variety.
Banana: Adds creaminess and natural sweetness. Ripe bananas mash easily and blend into the dish. If out, applesauce or a spoonful of your favorite jam work as effective substitutes to add moisture.
How do I cook the quinoa without it turning out mushy?
Use the right water ratio—about 2 parts water to 1 part quinoa. Rinse the quinoa first to remove saponins, which can cause bitterness. Bring the water to a boil, add quinoa, then reduce heat to simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until fluffy.
- Keep the heat low after boiling; high heat can make quinoa mushy.
- Don’t lift the lid often; steam helps release the light, fluffy texture.
- Once done, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
How to Make Blueberry Breakfast Quinoa?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or milk
For the Topping
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: sliced almonds or chopped nuts
How Much Time Will You Need?
5 minutes prep + 15 minutes cooking + 5 minutes standing = 25 minutes total
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine mesh strainer. Drain well to remove any bitter coating.
2. Cook the Quinoa
Combine rinsed quinoa and water or milk in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.
3. Let Quinoa Rest
Remove from heat and let the quinoa sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork to separate grains.
4. Prepare the Blueberry Mixture
In a small bowl, mix blueberries with honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract. Set aside.
5. Serve
Spoon the cooked quinoa into bowls. Top with the blueberry mixture and optional nuts. Serve warm. Enjoy your healthy breakfast!
