Make a batch of quinoa in minutes using your Instant Pot. This simple method yields perfectly cooked quinoa in about 15 minutes—ideal for meal prep, salads, or a quick weeknight side.
Take the guesswork out of cooking quinoa with this easy Instant Pot quinoa recipe.
Quinoa is a versatile, gluten-free grain that makes a great swap for rice or pasta. It can be tricky to get right on the stove, but in a pressure cooker you’ll get consistent, fluffy results every time.
Why you will love this pressure cooker quinoa recipe!
- Quick and easy: Minimal prep and ready to serve in about 15 minutes.
- Make ahead: Instant Pot quinoa stores well for meal prep—perfect for lunches, salads, or sides.
- Wholesome: Quinoa has a satisfying texture and works well in plant-based or mixed dishes.
Ingredients for cooking quinoa in Instant Pot
- Quinoa: Any variety works; tri-color quinoa was used here.
- Water: Plain tap water is fine.
- Salt: A small amount enhances flavor.
- Cooking spray: A light coating prevents sticking to the Instant Pot bowl.
How to make Instant Pot quinoa
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under running water until it runs clear.
- Spray the bottom of the Instant Pot insert with cooking spray. Add the rinsed quinoa, water, and salt; stir to combine. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Pressure cook on high for 1 minute, then allow a 10-minute natural release. Finish with a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid carefully, fluff the quinoa with a fork, and serve warm.
TIPS FROM NELI’S KITCHEN
Recipe Notes and Tips for the Perfect Instant Pot Quinoa
- Rinse quinoa well to remove its natural coating (saponin), which can taste bitter if left on.
- Use a 1:1 ratio of quinoa to water. More liquid makes it mushy; too little leaves it undercooked.
- For extra flavor, cook quinoa in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water, or add a bouillon cube.
- Quinoa typically triples in volume when cooked. Don’t overfill the pot—leave room for expansion.
- Cooking time and liquid ratio are the same for different quinoa varieties.
- One cup of dry quinoa yields about three cups cooked.
How do you serve quinoa?
Use quinoa as a base for salads, bowls, or as a substitute for rice or pasta. It pairs well with roasted vegetables, grilled proteins, or fresh herbs and dressings.
Recipe FAQs
Cooked quinoa cools and stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. It can also be frozen for several months—thaw before reheating.
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or oil, or in the microwave with a tablespoon of water per cup, covered, for about 2–3 minutes, stirring once.
Add spices (cumin, garlic powder, cilantro), bay leaves, or cook the quinoa in broth. A bouillon cube stirred into the cooking liquid also adds depth.
More Instant Pot Recipes
- Instant Pot Beef Stew
- Instant Pot Artichokes
- Ribs in Pressure Cooker
- Instant Pot Spaghetti Squash
If you enjoyed this Instant Pot Quinoa recipe, please leave a star rating and let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Thanks for visiting!
Instant Pot Quinoa
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup quinoa
- ½ teaspoon salt
- cooking spray
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa very thoroughly under running water until it runs clear.
- Spray the bottom of the Instant Pot insert with cooking spray. Add rinsed quinoa, water, and salt; stir. Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on High Pressure for 1 minute. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
- Open the lid carefully, fluff with a fork, and serve warm.
Notes
- Rinse quinoa well to remove the natural coating that can taste bitter.
- Use a 1:1 ratio of quinoa to water for reliable results.
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 55 g
| Protein: 12 g
| Fat: 5 g
| Fiber: 6 g
Nutrition Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary with ingredient brands and portion sizes.