Saffron Quinoa with Dried Cherries and Almonds
Saffron Quinoa with Dried Cherries and Almonds is a flavorful Continental Global Delicacies dish prepared with quality ingredients. Crush saffron, if using, with the handle of a wooden spoon (or crush between your fingers) in a small bowl until a powder forms.
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Easy Prep ≤ 4 steps · Fast & beginner friendly
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Moderate 5–8 steps · Everyday home cooking
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Expert ≥ 9 steps · Multi-step advanced prep
Ingredients Required
Tap or click any ingredient to check off during cookingStep-by-Step Cooking Method
Follow numbered steps for authentic taste and perfectionCrush saffron, if using, with the handle of a wooden spoon (or crush between your fingers) in a small bowl until a powder forms.
Add 1 Tbsp. hot water.
Swirl gently; set aside to steep.
Heat 1 Tbsp. oil in a large pot over medium-high.
Add almonds, cinnamon, cayenne, and 1/4 tsp. salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until toasted and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer almonds to a small bowl; reserve oil in pot.
Heat oil in pot over medium-high.
Add onion and remaining 2 Tbsp. oil and 1 1/2 tsp. salt, reduce heat to medium, and cook until onion is light brown and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add quinoa and cook, tossing to coat, until fragrant and beginning to brown, 1–2 minutes.
Stir in 4 cups water, cover pot, and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low and simmer until quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed, 20–30 minutes.
Remove from heat, sprinkle cherries over, cover, and let sit 10 minutes.
Transfer 2 cups quinoa mixture to a medium bowl.
Reserve 1/2 cup toasted almonds, then toss remaining almonds with remaining quinoa mixture and transfer to a platter.
Toss quinoa in bowl with saffron water until coated, then garnish platter with saffron quinoa.
Top with remaining toasted almonds.
Quinoa, with cherries, can be cooked 3 days ahead.
Transfer to a resealable container and chill.
Reheat over low on stovetop or in a 300°F oven until warmed.
Chef's Secret Tips & Serving Pairings
- Serve hot and fresh as a wholesome vegetarian meal.
- Pairs excellently with steamed rice, flatbreads, or fresh salad garnish.