If you’re looking for an ultra-satisfying and vibrant one-pan dish, Mushroom Spinach Quinoa is about to become your go-to! This quick and wholesome recipe pairs earthy mushrooms and tender spinach with fluffy, perfectly seasoned quinoa—offering big flavor and nutrition with barely any fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Wholesome Fuel: Quinoa, mushrooms, and spinach create a protein-packed, nutrient-rich meal to keep you energized and satisfied.
- 20-Minute Wonder: From start to finish, Mushroom Spinach Quinoa comes together in a flash—perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed Simplicity: Just a handful of pantry staples transform into a deeply savory, crave-worthy dish—no fancy techniques required.
- Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it warm for dinner, portion it out for lunch, or bring it along to potlucks and watch it disappear!
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s beauty in simplicity, and that’s exactly what makes Mushroom Spinach Quinoa shine. Each ingredient brings its own unique flavor, color, and nutritional boost—so don’t skip anything! Here’s what you’ll need for this ultra-cozy skillet meal.
- Quinoa: The star of the show—nutty, protein-rich, and cooks up perfectly fluffy every time.
- Water: Essential for cooking the quinoa to tender perfection.
- Olive oil: Adds silkiness and helps brown the veggies for extra depth of flavor.
- Garlic (minced): Four cloves infuse the whole dish with irresistible aroma and warmth.
- Cremini mushrooms (sliced): These bring hearty, umami-rich notes; feel free to use white or baby bella mushrooms if you like.
- Spinach: Two cups wilt down beautifully, adding vibrant greens and a mild, fresh flavor.
- Soy sauce: A dose of umami magic that ties everything together and seasons the dish just right.
- Garlic powder: Adds an extra layer of garlicky depth that really pops.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and brightening all the flavors (season to taste!).
Variations
Mushroom Spinach Quinoa is endlessly adaptable, so don’t be afraid to get creative. Whether you’re accommodating dietary preferences, working with what’s in your fridge, or just having fun, here are some inspired ways to riff on the classic.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and crunch.
- Switch Up Greens: Substitute kale, Swiss chard, or arugula for spinach if you have them on hand.
- Try a Protein Boost: For even more staying power, stir in cooked chickpeas, diced tofu, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep everything 100% gluten-free.
How to Make Mushroom Spinach Quinoa
Step 1: Cook the Quinoa
In a medium to large saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cover. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender and fluffy. Give it a fluff with a fork and set aside—it’s the perfect base for all those savory veggies!
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, fresh spinach, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Stir and let everything mingle for about 3–4 minutes, just until the mushrooms are tender and the spinach wilts beautifully.
Step 3: Combine and Finish
Add the cooked quinoa straight into the skillet with your veggie mixture. Stir well, making sure every bite is infused with garlicky, umami-rich goodness. Taste and season with salt and pepper—and just like that, Mushroom Spinach Quinoa is ready to serve!
Pro Tips for Making Mushroom Spinach Quinoa
- Golden Mushroom Magic: Let your mushrooms sit undisturbed in the pan for the first minute or two—they’ll caramelize and add an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Effortless Spinach Wilting: Add spinach after mushrooms soften so it wilts gently and retains its beautiful green color.
- Quinoa Fluff Factor: Always fluff the quinoa with a fork after cooking—this keeps the grains light and prevents clumping when you mix everything together.
- Salt at the End: Soy sauce brings saltiness, so wait until combining everything before adding extra salt and pepper to taste.
How to Serve Mushroom Spinach Quinoa
Garnishes
Top your Mushroom Spinach Quinoa with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, a handful of toasted pine nuts, or a dusting of grated parmesan or vegan cheese for even more flavor and a pretty finish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or some crusty bread. For a heartier spread, serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or roasted sweet potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon Mushroom Spinach Quinoa into roasted bell pepper halves for a fun and festive entrée, or layer it into glass jars for colorful meal-prep lunches. You can even pack it into lettuce cups for an irresistible party appetizer!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Mushroom Spinach Quinoa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better as they mingle, making it a superstar for easy weekday lunches.
Freezing
To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Label and freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat Mushroom Spinach Quinoa gently in the microwave, or on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring back its fluffy texture. Give it a quick stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of mushroom in Mushroom Spinach Quinoa?
Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms add lots of flavor, white button, shiitake, or even portobello mushrooms work beautifully. Just slice them thin so they cook quickly and evenly.
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How can I make Mushroom Spinach Quinoa vegan or gluten-free?
Great news—this recipe is naturally vegan as written! For gluten-free, swap out regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to ensure it’s safe for everyone.
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Can I prepare Mushroom Spinach Quinoa in advance for meal prep?
Yes! This dish holds up beautifully for meal prep. Divide into containers and refrigerate; just reheat and enjoy all week long for a nourishing grab-and-go meal.
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What does quinoa taste like in this recipe?
Quinoa brings a subtle, nutty flavor and light texture that pairs perfectly with the savory mushrooms and soft spinach. It soaks up the garlicky soy flavors, making every bite of Mushroom Spinach Quinoa irresistible!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort and nourishment in every bite, give Mushroom Spinach Quinoa a go—it’s hearty, wholesome, and packed with delicious, feel-good ingredients. I hope it becomes a staple on your table as quickly as it did on mine!
Print
Mushroom Spinach Quinoa Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 Min
- Cook Time: 15 Min
- Total Time: 20 Min
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: N/A
Description
A flavorful and nutritious dish featuring quinoa, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach all cooked together to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Quinoa:
- 1 1/2 cups quinoa
- 2 cups water
Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 – 8oz. package cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 2 cups spinach
Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa: Combine water and quinoa in a saucepan. Cook for about 15 minutes.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a sauté pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic, mushrooms, spinach, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Add cooked quinoa to the vegetable mixture. Stir well until blended. Serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
