Savory Spinach Ricotta Quinoa Bowl (Printable Version)
A protein-rich morning bowl with fluffy quinoa, wilted spinach, creamy ricotta, and a perfectly cooked egg for a nourishing start to your day.
# Ingredient List:
→ Quinoa Base
01 - 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly
02 - 1 cup water
03 - Pinch of salt
→ Vegetables
04 - 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and stemmed
05 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
06 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Dairy & Eggs
07 - 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
08 - 2 large eggs
→ Seasonings & Garnish
09 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
10 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
11 - 1 tablespoon fresh chives or parsley, chopped
12 - Red pepper flakes to taste
# How to Make It:
01 - Combine rinsed quinoa, water, and salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
02 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add fresh spinach and toss continuously for 2–3 minutes until just wilted. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
03 - Prepare eggs in a separate non-stick pan according to preference—fried sunny-side up, poached for 3–4 minutes, or soft-boiled for 6 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper.
04 - Divide fluffy quinoa evenly between two bowls. Arrange sautéed spinach over the quinoa, then add a generous dollop of ricotta to each bowl. Top with the prepared egg.
05 - Sprinkle chopped fresh chives or parsley over each bowl. Add red pepper flakes if desired for heat. Serve immediately while eggs are warm and ricotta is creamy.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- You get protein from three different sources, keeping you full straight through lunch without that mid-morning crash
- It comes together in 25 minutes but feels like something youd order at a fancy brunch spot
02 -
- Dont skip rinsing the quinoa, or you will taste the bitterness no matter how much cheese you add
- The ricotta melts into the quinoa better if you let it sit on top for 30 seconds before stirring
03 -
- Warm your bowls in the oven for a few minutes so breakfast stays hot longer
- If your ricotta feels grainy, whip it with a fork until smooth before adding