When it comes to finding nutritious and delicious meals, few ingredients rival the mighty quinoa and kale duo. These two superfoods are packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a match made in heaven for health-conscious eaters. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering quinoa and kale recipes that will satisfy your cravings and fuel your body for any meal of the day. From hearty bowls to flavorful stir-fries, and even sweet treats, we’ve got you covered with a variety of dishes that showcase the versatility of these two nutritional powerhouses.
Stay tuned as we dive into the world of quinoa and kale recipes, where flavors come alive and nutrition meets deliciousness!
Quinoa and Kale Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, all wrapped up in a colorful bell pepper. Perfect for a healthy dinner or lunch, these stuffed peppers are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix together quinoa, kale, black beans, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Quinoa with Sautéed Kale
This refreshing quinoa dish is a perfect blend of citrusy brightness and savory depth, all wrapped up with the earthy goodness of kale. It’s an ideal side dish for your next dinner party or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 4 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked quinoa to the skillet and toss to combine with the lemon-garlic mixture.
7. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quinoa Kale Salad with Avocado Dressing
This quinoa kale salad is a flavorful and healthy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of cooked quinoa, curly kale, and creamy avocado dressing makes for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, massage chopped kale with your hands for about 5 minutes until it becomes tender.
3. Add cooked quinoa, diced avocado, lemon juice, and olive oil to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time for quinoa)
Warm Quinoa and Kale Bowl with Tahini Drizzle
Nourish your body with this satisfying and healthy bowl recipe that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa, the earthy taste of kale, and the creamy richness of tahini.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons water
– Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss kale with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread kale on a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes or until slightly wilted.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini and water until smooth.
6. To assemble the bowls, place cooked quinoa at the bottom, followed by roasted kale.
7. Drizzle tahini sauce over the top and garnish with lemon wedges (optional).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa Kale Patties with Spicy Yogurt Sauce
Elevate your healthy eating game with these nutrient-packed quinoa kale patties, served with a tangy and spicy yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
For the patties:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spicy Yogurt Sauce:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, kale, black beans, oats, and olive oil.
3. Form into patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, whisk together yogurt, sriracha sauce, and honey.
7. Serve patties with Spicy Yogurt Sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-27 minutes
Roasted Sweet Potato and Quinoa Kale Salad
This hearty salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of quinoa and the earthy goodness of kale. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 4 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled feta cheese or chopped pecans for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, kale, roasted sweet potatoes, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Coconut Quinoa with Kale and Chickpeas
This recipe combines nutritious quinoa, protein-rich chickpeas, and leafy kale in a creamy coconut sauce. Perfect as a main dish or side, this flavorful and filling meal is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chickpeas and cook until lightly browned (3-4 minutes).
3. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
4. Stir in coconut cream, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with the kale mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa Kale Soup with Turmeric and Ginger
This hearty soup combines the nutritional benefits of quinoa, kale, and turmeric to create a comforting and nourishing meal. The addition of ginger adds warmth and depth to this vibrant green soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, and turmeric. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the quinoa, water or broth, and chopped kale to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the greens have wilted.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa Kale Stir-Fry with Sesame Soy Glaze
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, all wrapped up in a sweet and savory sesame soy glaze. Perfect as a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger.
4. Pour the glaze over the cooked kale and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with the kale mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa and Kale Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with a nutritious and filling breakfast that combines the protein-rich quinoa with the goodness of kale. This recipe is a twist on traditional scrambled eggs, packed with fiber and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the cooked quinoa and soy sauce (if using).
5. Add the quinoa mixture to the skillet with the kale and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Quinoa and Kale Casserole with Cheese
This hearty casserole combines nutritious quinoa and kale with melted cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for a comforting meal or potluck dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped kale, diced onion, and minced garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together grated cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Add the quinoa-kale mixture to the prepared baking dish, followed by the cheese-breadcrumb topping.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quinoa Kale Wraps with Hummus and Veggies
Transform your lunch into a nutritious powerhouse with these Quinoa Kale Wraps, packed with hummus, veggies, and whole grains.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 whole wheat or whole grain tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, massage the chopped kale with your hands for about 2 minutes until it becomes tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat the cooked quinoa over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted.
4. Spread a tablespoon of hummus on each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Add the toasted quinoa, kale, cucumber, bell peppers, and feta cheese (if using) to the center of each tortilla.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Quinoa Kale Stew with Black Beans
This hearty stew combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the spiciness of chipotle peppers, the earthiness of kale, and the protein-packed goodness of black beans. Perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chipotle pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa, black beans, and kale. Cook until the greens have wilted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quinoa Kale Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This vibrant pasta dish combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of kale, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy pesto sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 bunch curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (see note)
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped kale in a little bit of olive oil until wilted.
3. Add cooked pasta, pesto, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Note: You can use store-bought pesto or make your own using basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
Quinoa Kale Smoothie Bowl with Almond Butter
Start your day with a nutrient-packed bowl that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa, the earthy taste of kale, and the creamy richness of almond butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon almond butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine cooked quinoa, chopped kale, sliced banana, and almond butter.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
3. Add salt to taste and blend again if desired.
4. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
5. If using honey, drizzle it over the top of the smoothie.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (excluding cooking time for quinoa)
Quinoa Kale Sushi Rolls with Avocado
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa, the earthy taste of kale, and the creaminess of avocado to create a unique and delicious vegan sushi roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups curly kale leaves
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cucumber slices or carrot sticks for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Massage the kale leaves with a pinch of salt until tender.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat. Spread 1/4 cup of cooked quinoa along the middle of the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border on each side.
4. Top the quinoa with a handful of massaged kale, followed by sliced avocado.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with brown rice vinegar and sesame oil for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooking time for quinoa)
Quinoa Kale Fritters with Garlic Aioli
These crispy fritters packed with nutritious quinoa and kale are the perfect snack or appetizer. Pair them with our creamy garlic aioli for a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic Aioli (see below)
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine quinoa, kale, flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, and salt. Mix well.
3. Using your hands, shape mixture into small patties (about 12).
4. Fry fritters in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve warm with Garlic Aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa Kale Risotto with Mushrooms and Parmesan
This creamy, earthy risotto combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tender bite of kale and the richness of mushrooms and Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa and broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked quinoa, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to supercharge your meals with these 18 nutritious quinoa and kale recipes! From breakfast to dinner, snacks to desserts, this collection has got you covered. Enjoy Quinoa and Kale Stuffed Peppers for a flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, or try Lemon Garlic Quinoa with Sautéed Kale for a light and refreshing side dish. Discover creative uses for quinoa and kale in salads, soups, patties, bowls, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a special occasion meal, this array of recipes will satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.
