Quinoa for Kids
I love to vary the grains that I serve to my family and to experiment with using options like quinoa in a range of recipes. Quinoa is an easy way to add nutrients into rotation, can provide vegetarian protein, and can be used similarly to rice and other grains in recipes and meals. Quinoa does have a more noticeable flavor than most rice recipes, so you may want to see how your kids prefer it. They may like it better when it’s flavored as it can taste a little grassy. I love relying on this pantry staple to make vegetarian meals for kids—including healthy toddler breakfasts, easy meal prep lunches, and make-ahead toddler dinners.
Nutrition in Quinoa
Quinoa is a perfect vegetarian food to share with the kids since it’s packed with nutrition—including complete protein (which is rare in a vegetarian food) and fiber. It’s also versatile and can be flavored with so many spices or other fresh ingredients, which means you can change how you use it throughout the year or according to what you’re wanting to make.
Can quinoa be eaten by kids?
Quinoa is considered to be a grain and can be enjoyed by kids similarly to how you’d serve rice. When cooked soft, it’s very easy to eat and chew, even for babies. I love serving quinoa as quinoa baby cereal, as pudding, and the way you’d use rice in recipes such as patties and stir fries.
Why is quinoa good for kids?
Quinoa is rich in nutrients, including protein and fiber, and is a quick-cooking food that can be flavored with all sorts of other ingredients, sauces, and spices. It’s also gluten-free, which can be helpful for many families.
Can my baby eat quinoa?
Quinoa is a great baby food since it’s nutrient-dense and easy to flavor. You can make pureed smooth quinoa baby food or a thicker, more textured quinoa baby cereal. Just learn how to cook quinoa on the stove and you are good to go!
How can I make quinoa taste good?
The easiest way to make quinoa taste good is to first rinse it in a fine-mesh sieve, which can help to remove any lingering saponins (which taste bitter). And then add flavor. From butter and a little salt to pizza sauce, pesto, lemon, and so many other options, you can really tailor the flavor of quinoa for what your kids like. You can even use it to make homemade tots!
Favorite Quinoa Recipes for Kids
Below are some of my favorite easy recipes for quinoa to share with the kids. Each can also be enjoyed by us parents (which can help cut down on food waste).
Quinoa Baby Food
This easy cereal has a similar consistency to cream of wheat and is a great option for breakfast.
Shortcut Quinoa Fried Rice
With a short cooking time and the ability to prep it ahead, this easy skillet meal is a delicious vegetarian meal to share with the whole family.
How to Cook Quinoa on the Stove
Learn the most basic (and easy) way to cook quinoa, and then find simple ways to add flavor. With storage tips too.
Cauliflower Tots
Transform cooked quinoa into tender homemade tots with this easy recipe.
Quinoa Pudding
Learn how to cook quinoa into an easy pudding that can be enjoyed for breakfast or dessert for all ages.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
I love this salad in the summer as it’s fresh, easy, and lasts in the fridge. It’s a perfect lunch or potluck meal to share.
Butternut Squash Quinoa
Blend up a simple mix of squash and quinoa in this recipe that’s a great Stage 3 Baby Food…or easy family side dish.
Protein for Kids Quinoa Fritters Easy Cheesy Rice Master List of Vegetarian Meals
I’d love to hear your feedback on this post, so please comment below to share!
Vegetable Stir Fry with Rice and Tofu
Quick Broccoli Fritters
Quick Pesto Pasta and Peas
One-Pot Lentils and Rice
This post was first published June 2022.
