For a wholesome and tasty breakfast that will fuel your day, this Apple Quinoa Breakfast Bowl is sure to delight. Packed with protein-rich quinoa and sweet, tart apples, this flavorful dish is a perfect, healthy start to your morning. Let's get this day started!
Why Quinoa?
Quinoa is a nutritional powerhouse that has gained popularity in the last twenty years for its many health benefits. Quinoa is one of just a few plant-based foods that is a complete protein and is also a good source of fiber and other nutrients, making it a fabulous addition to your diet.
As an added bonus, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
The Versatility of Quinoa
One of the best things about quinoa is its versatility. While commonly used as a substitute for rice or pasta, quinoa can also be incorporated into breakfast dishes like this Apple Quinoa Breakfast Bowl.
Its mild nutty flavor pairs well with sweet or savory ingredients, making it a great base for a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
- Apple: A combination of sweet and tart apples can be used for more complex flavors.
- Quinoa: Rinsing quinoa removes its natural bitterness, ensuring a delicious result.
- Almond Milk: Provides a creamy, dairy-free base. Use any milk you prefer.
- Applesauce: Adds moisture and enhances the apple flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Coconut palm sugar is a great natural sweetener if you prefer.
- Ground Cinnamon: Use a good quality cinnamon and make sure that it is fresh for the best flavor.
- Sea Salt: I like sea salt, but use what you have on hand.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla bean paste provides even more vanilla flavor if you like.
- Chopped Pecans: You could use walnuts, cashews, or almonds if you prefer.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tips and Tricks
- Rinse Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa before cooking to remove its natural bitterness.
- Simmer Gently: Bring quinoa and milk to a gentle simmer, stirring often to prevent sticking.
- Fresh Apples for Crunch: Add chopped fresh apples towards the end of cooking for a delightful crunch.
- Let it Sit: After cooking, let the mixture sit covered for an extra five minutes to absorb any remaining liquid.
- Customize Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness by drizzling maple syrup on top just before serving.
- Prep Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated for busy mornings.
- Pecan Topping: Toast the pecans lightly before adding them as a topping for extra flavor.
More Quinoa Breakfast Recipes to Try
- Quinoa Breakfast Scramble: A protein-packed, savory breakfast option that comes together in minutes.
- Baked Quinoa and Oatmeal: This one pan breakfast makes a welcome change from traditional oatmeal, offering a warm, cinnamon spice flavor.
- Blueberry Quinoa Muffins: Super-quick and flavor packed, these muffins are perfect for breakfast or snacks.
- Coffee Quinoa Smoothie: This smoothie is downright delicious and keeps you going all morning long.
Apple Quinoa Breakfast
Ingredients
Instructions
- Using a box grater or food processor, shred two apples.
- Bring quinoa and milk to a simmer in a medium saucepan, stirring often. Stir in grated apples, applesauce, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and salt. Return to a simmer. Cover and cook on low for 25 minutes.
- Chop remaining 2 apples. Stir in chopped apples and vanilla and re-cover. Cook for 5 to 10 more minutes. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 more minutes.
- Divide among four serving bowls and top each with a tablespoon of pecans. If desired, drizzle with maple syrup. Serve warm. May be made ahead and reheated prior to serving.
Tonia says
Hi Wendy,
You had a wonderful recipe on your old site that was similar to this but also contained oats. I can't seem to find it. Would you please share that with me? It was apples, quinoa, oats, milk, cinnamon, maple syrup topped with pecans? I used to make it so often that I had the recipe memorized, but I haven't made it in a while and need my memory refreshed. I was hoping to make it for breakfast Christmas morning.
Thank you. Have a wonderful holiday season!