Creamy Lemon Spinach Quinoa

Name: Creamy Lemon Spinach Quinoa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup cream cheese; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Spinach Quinoa on busy weeknights. This dish is a delightful combination of creamy textures, vibrant spinach, and a zesty lemon bite that always leaves me feeling satisfied. It's so quick to prepare, which makes it a great option for a healthy yet indulgent meal. Plus, quinoa is an excellent source of protein, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious. Join me in creating a masterpiece that’s good for both the soul and the body!

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:42:36.380Z

This Creamy Lemon Spinach Quinoa recipe is a family favorite that I discovered during a particularly busy week. I wanted something quick but packed with flavor and nutrition, and this dish fit the bill perfectly. The combination of creamy sauce and fresh spinach makes it satisfying, and the lemon zest adds a fresh kick that ties everything together beautifully.

I learned early on that the secret to a perfect quinoa dish is rinsing the grains before cooking. It removes the natural coating called saponin, which can give a bitter taste. Trust me, it makes a significant difference, so don't skip this step. Enjoy every bite of this lovely meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that brings comfort food vibes
Zesty lemon elevates the flavors and freshness
Packed with nutrients from quinoa and spinach
Quick and easy recipe that's perfect for weeknights

Making the Quinoa Perfectly

Cooking quinoa can be tricky if not done right. It's important to rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove the natural bitter coating called saponin. Use a fine mesh strainer and let it run under cold water for at least 1-2 minutes. When you toast the quinoa in olive oil for 2-3 minutes, it not only enhances the flavor but also gives the quinoa a nutty undertone that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Keep an eye on the quinoa as it cooks; you'll want to see those little tails (the germ) start to separate from the grains. This is a sign that it's done. If you notice any excess water after 15 minutes, just leave it covered for a few more minutes off heat; it will continue to absorb any remaining liquid while maintaining its fluffy texture.

Crafting a Rich Creamy Sauce

The combination of cream cheese, spinach, and lemon creates an incredibly rich and flavorful sauce that clings to each grain of quinoa. To ensure that the sauce is smooth and well mixed, let the cream cheese sit out at room temperature for about 15 minutes before mixing. This will soften it and make it easier to blend without lumps. Incorporating lemon juice and zest not only brightens up the dish but also balances the richness of the cream cheese with a refreshing zing.

If you're aiming for a lighter sauce, consider substituting half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. This will reduce the calorie count while adding a tangy flavor. Just be cautious not to overheat the sauce once it’s combined with the quinoa, as high heat can cause the yogurt to curdle.

Ingredients

For the Quinoa

1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Sauce

1 cup spinach, chopped
1/2 cup cream cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed quinoa and toast for 2-3 minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes until the quinoa is cooked.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together the cream cheese, spinach, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Once the quinoa is cooked, stir in the creamy mixture, ensuring everything is well combined.

Season and Serve

Taste the quinoa and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon zest or a sprinkle of more fresh spinach if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding crushed garlic or sautéed onions into the creamy sauce. You can also substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Lemon Spinach Quinoa can be made ahead of time, which is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Once prepared, let the dish cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the creamy consistency.

If you want to freeze leftovers, portion them into freezer-safe containers. It’s best to freeze the quinoa without the sauce if possible, as cream cheese can change texture when thawed. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before gently reheating it on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple grilled chicken or fish for added protein. For a lighter meal, serve the quinoa alongside a refreshing salad made with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette. You can also turn it into a complete vegetarian dish by adding roasted chickpeas for extra crunch and protein, elevating the nutritional value even further.

Feel free to get creative with mix-ins! Adding artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or even fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor profile. For added texture, consider topping it off with toasted pine nuts or walnuts right before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese or a thick cashew cream.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Once cooled, store the quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be great additions.

→ Is quinoa gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free and is a great alternative to grains that contain gluten.