Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (170g) uncooked white quinoa
  • 2 cups (480ml) vegetable broth
  • 3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves (20g) garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp (1g) cracked black pepper
  • 1 large (150g) ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 3 stalks (30g) green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) extra virgin olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water for 30 seconds to remove the saponin coating, then shake well to remove excess moisture.
  2. Place a saucepan over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and pale gold.
  3. Stir in the rinsed quinoa and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the grains smell nutty and look slightly translucent.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and let the quinoa sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  6. Divide the garlic quinoa into four bowls. Top each with diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced green onions.
  7. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, then season with a final pinch of salt and pepper to taste.