This quinoa pilaf is made with mushrooms and thyme, and makes the perfect side dish or vegetarian main course. It's a complete source of plant-based protein!
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet (that has a lid) over medium-high heat, and add in the onions, celery, and mushrooms. Saute until tender, about 8 minutes. Add in the garlic and thyme, and stir just until fragrant, about 1 more minute.
Pour the quinoa into a fine mesh seive and rinse well, to help remove any bitterness. Pour the drained quinoa into the skillet, along with the broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the liquid to a boil.
When the liquid is boiling, lower the heat and cover the pan with a lid. Let it cook until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes. If the quinoa isn't totally tender in that amount of time, remove the pan from the heat and keep it covered for 10 more minutes. The quinoa should be tender by then, without anything burning to the bottom.
Remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Adjust any seasoning to taste, and stir in the pecans for added crunch. Serve warm right away. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. (It's delicious cold for lunch the next day, too!)
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Notes
Nutrition information is for 1 of 4 servings. If you're serving this as a main course, it may only serve 2 to 3 people. Nutrition information is automatically calculated, and is just an estimate, not a guarantee.Feel free to swap the veggies for any others that you have on hand.