Lemon Herb Quinoa with Hemp Seeds, Spring Peas, and Basil
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Gena Hamshaw says: This dish shows off hemp seeds and quinoa -- two sources of complete protein. Both of these ingredients are sort of famous for being "hippie foods," but as you'll see, they're both perfectly accessible and delicious, especially when paired with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon. Feel free to substitute the basil for dill, oregano, or another herb of choice; no matter what, they result will be a tasty, satisfying, and simple meatless meal!
Serves 4
- 1 cup Quinoa, dry
- 2 cups Water, cold
- 1 cup Green peas, fresh or frozen
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Shelled hemp seeds
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon Sea salt (plus a little extra)
- 1 dash Black pepper
- Rinse quinoa in a mesh strainer with cold water. Transfer to a pot and add the 2 cups cold water and a nice pinch of salt. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, and leave the lid of the pot slightly ajar while cooking. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until quinoa is plump, the water is absorbed, and you see the tiny little outer “shells” of the quinoa grain coming loose in the pot.
- Remove quinoa from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes or so. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- While quinoa is cooking, boil fresh or frozen peas till warm and tender. Drain and set aside.
- Mix quinoa, peas, basil, and hemp seeds in a large bowl. Whisk together the oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, dijon mustard, 1/4 tsp sea salt, and black pepper. Pour over the quinoa salad mixture, and serve warm or cold. Dish will keep excellently (though the basil might turn a little dark) in the fridge for 2-3 days.
- This recipe is a Community Pick!






7 months ago thefroggirloz
This was so tasty! Thanks so much for posting it, I'd been wondering what to do with the quinoa in my cupboard! I used a quinoa & amaranth mix as that was what I had.. Also used black chia seed as I can't get hemp seed. And agave as I didn't have maple syrup... But it's so tasty & refreshing, I'm excited to see your future recipe posts! :)
7 months ago db7
I'm so excited that you'll be posting recipes regularly. This is exactly the type of simple, light and delicious meals/sides I've been looking for. Thank you!
8 months ago raw
Beautiful! I didn't put in the maple syrup because it is simply not an ingredient we use. Instead, I added one half cup of sweet corn niblets. It was a big hit at the 4th of July party!
8 months ago Gena Hamshaw
So glad that you enjoyed it so much!!!
8 months ago Mmdisibio
Delicious! Loved this - did not have maple syrup so used agave in place.. Still delish! Thank you
8 months ago Gena Hamshaw
Thank you so much! I'm delighted that you enjoyed it.
8 months ago Bowmgbo
Whoa! We had this tonight. It is now our #1 fave Food52 entree (nudging to 2nd place "One Pot Kale & Quinoa Pilaf"). Gena, it is amazing how you got umami out of these ingredients. Brava!