I tell you what, I am loving this healthy kick I’ve been on. We’ll see how long this lasts before I cave and make something decadent (I will always be a woman who needs a piece of cake or juicy burger once in a while), but for now I’m thoroughly enjoying the ride! Quinoa has become an absolute favorite of mine because it satisfies my massive carb cravings without the guilt.
![Quinoa is such an amazing food that can be used in so many dishes, including this balsamic spinach quinoa side dish!](https://i0.wp.com/jeanieandluluskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/0022-e1420678212187.jpg?resize=688%2C457&ssl=1)
![The balsamic spinach quinoa ready to cook!](https://i0.wp.com/jeanieandluluskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/0041-e1420678471369.jpg?resize=688%2C457&ssl=1)
![Spinach adds great freshness and pretty green color to the balsamic spinach quinoa.](https://i0.wp.com/jeanieandluluskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/0052-e1420679082618.jpg?resize=688%2C457&ssl=1)
![Balsamic Spinach Quinoa](https://i0.wp.com/jeanieandluluskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/008-e1420679486821.jpg?resize=688%2C740&ssl=1)
That was it, it was as simple as that! I loved the rich, deep color and flavor that relatively small amount of balsamic gave the dish, and the spinach was a wonderfully fresh and green counterpoint. Balsamic spinach quinoa is really the ultimate side dish, enjoy friends!
![Balsamic Spinach Quinoa](https://i0.wp.com/jeanieandluluskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/019-e1421168822576.jpg?resize=688%2C457&ssl=1)
![Balsamic Spinach Quinoa](https://i0.wp.com/jeanieandluluskitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/019-e1421168822576.jpg?fit=150%2C100&ssl=1)
Balsamic Spinach Quinoa
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
12 mins
Total Time
17 mins
Course: Side Dish
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups vegetable stock
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 cup plain uncooked quinoa
- 1 packed cup baby spinach leaves roughly chopped
Instructions
- In a small pot combine the stock, balsamic and salt. Bring it to a boil, then stir in the quinoa. Cover the pot and turn the heat to medium low. Let the quinoa cook for 12-14 minutes, until all of the liquid is absorbed and it is tender.
- Turn off the heat when the quinoa is cooked and fluff it up with a fork. Stir in the chopped spinach and let it just wilt into the hot quinoa. Scoop it onto a plate with your favorite main course and enjoy!