Mushroom Quinoa Risotto

Mushroom Quinoa Risotto

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Mushroom Quinoa Risotto. I remember the first time I made it; it was a rainy evening, and the air was filled with the earthy aroma of sautéed mushrooms and garlic. As I stirred the creamy quinoa, I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of joy and nostalgia. This dish wraps you in a hug, offering both warmth and satisfaction. It’s one of those meals that instantly transforms a simple night into something special. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner for yourself or a hearty dish to share with loved ones, the Mushroom Quinoa Risotto is your go-to recipe. You’ll find that it’s as delightful to prepare as it is to enjoy. Let’s explore what makes this dish a staple in my kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
12 g
Diet:
Whole30, Vegan, Gluten-Free
Fat:
9 g
Tools Used:
Saucepan, Skillet, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon

Why This Mushroom Quinoa Risotto Is a Winner

Rich and Creamy Texture

One of the most appealing aspects of the Mushroom Quinoa Risotto is its rich and creamy texture. Unlike traditional risottos that rely on rice, this dish uses quinoa, which provides a delightful nutty flavor and a unique texture. Quinoa absorbs the broth beautifully, creating a comforting base that pairs perfectly with the sautéed mushrooms and vibrant spinach.

Quick and Easy Preparation

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. With a simple preparation method, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s all about layering flavors and letting the ingredients shine, making it a hassle-free cooking experience.

Wholesome Ingredients

The Mushroom Quinoa Risotto is packed with wholesome ingredients. From the earthy mushrooms to the fresh spinach, every bite is filled with nutrients. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Versatile and Adaptable

This dish is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Whether you want to toss in some roasted veggies or serve it alongside grilled chicken, the possibilities are endless. It’s a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Perfect for Leftovers

Leftovers never tasted so good! The Mushroom Quinoa Risotto keeps well in the fridge, and the flavors meld beautifully over time. It’s perfect for meal prep and can easily be reheated for a quick lunch or dinner option.

A Comforting Meal for All Occasions

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a cozy night in, this risotto is sure to impress. Its luxurious flavor and creamy texture make it a standout dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s meat-free, making it a great option for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a lighter meal.

FAQ

Absolutely! The Mushroom Quinoa Risotto is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that any sauces or broths you use are vegan-friendly. This dish is perfect for anyone following a plant-based diet.

Leftover Mushroom Quinoa Risotto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to eat it, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the Mushroom Quinoa Risotto. Some great options include bell peppers, peas, or zucchini. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as necessary depending on what you add.

Yes, rinsing quinoa is important! It removes the saponins, a natural coating that can taste bitter. Rinsing ensures that your Mushroom Quinoa Risotto has a pleasant, nutty flavor without any bitterness.

Conclusion

The Mushroom Quinoa Risotto is a creamy, comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself craving again and again. I encourage you to give it a try. You won’t be disappointed with the delightful flavors and the nourishing experience this recipe offers!

Mushroom Quinoa Risotto

Mushroom Quinoa Risotto

The ultimate comfort food, Mushroom Quinoa Risotto is creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor. It's the perfect choice for an easy weeknight dinner that will leave everyone craving more. Warm, nourishing, and simple to prepare, this dish should be on your table tonight!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Global
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz sliced mushrooms
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • to taste fine sea salt and black pepper

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Skillet
  • Large Pot
  • Chef's Knife
  • Frying Pan
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat a large, deep skillet with a lid over medium high heat. Once the surface is warm, add the olive oil and sauté the onion for 5 minutes, stirring often until it turns translucent and fragrant.
  2. Add in the mushrooms, garlic, and thyme and stir for 5 more minutes. The mushrooms should be brown and tender, and the garlic fragrant.
  3. Add the tamari to the pan and stir briefly to coat all ingredients. Rinse the dry quinoa in a fine mesh strainer until you no longer see any foam or bubbles form on top. Drain well.
  4. Transfer the rinsed quinoa to the pan. Add the vegetable broth and season with a 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt and a 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring the liquid to a boil.
  5. Once the broth is bubbling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot with a lid. Set a timer for 10 minutes. When the timer goes off, turn off the heat but leave the lid on for 5 more minutes. This will let the quinoa finish cooking without burning on the bottom.
  6. When 5 minutes have passed, remove the lid and stir the quinoa, making sure all of it looks cooked. It should be slightly translucent. Add the spinach and stir until it has wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Serve warm right away with your favorite protein or a side salad.
  7. Leftover quinoa risotto can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Nutrition: Nutrition information is for roughly 1 cup of risotto, assuming you get 4 cups total from this recipe. This information is automatically calculated, so it’s just an estimate, not a guarantee.
  • Update Note: This recipe first appeared on my website in January 2011, but was updated in 2025 to be an easier, one-pan dish.

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