Strawberry Quinoa Parfait Cup

Name: Strawberry Quinoa Parfait Cup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked quinoa; 2 cups Greek yogurt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1/2 cup granola; 2 tablespoons honey (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

I love starting my day with a boost of nutrition, and the Strawberry Quinoa Parfait Cup is my go-to recipe. Packed with protein-rich quinoa and fresh strawberries, it’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. The layers of creamy yogurt and crunchy granola create a delightful texture that keeps me coming back for more. Whether I'm heading out the door for work or enjoying a leisurely brunch at home, this parfait is always a winner in my book!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-23T14:03:20.154Z

When I first made the Strawberry Quinoa Parfait Cup, I was amazed at how quinoa could transform a simple breakfast into something special. I cooked the quinoa until fluffy and sweetened the yogurt with a hint of honey, which perfectly complemented the strawberries' brightness. Layering everything into cups not only made it visually appealing but also allowed the flavors to meld beautifully.

One crucial tip I learned is to let the cooked quinoa cool before adding it to the parfait. This prevents the yogurt from warming up and helps maintain that refreshing chill. It's a great make-ahead option, too, allowing me to enjoy a healthy breakfast ready in the fridge!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutritious quinoa packed with protein
Fresh strawberries that brighten up every bite
Versatile recipe for breakfast or a snack

Making the Most of Quinoa

Quinoa is not just a source of protein; it also provides a high amount of fiber and essential amino acids, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. When preparing your quinoa for this parfait, take care to rinse it thoroughly to remove the natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. The rinsing process should only take a minute or two under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.

Cooking quinoa is straightforward, but it's important to keep an eye on the water-to-quinoa ratio. For this recipe, using a 2:1 water to quinoa ratio ensures that the grains are perfectly fluffy. If you find that your quinoa is too mushy, it could be due to excess water absorption. Adjusting the cooking time slightly or letting it sit uncovered after cooking will help evaporate residual moisture.

Choosing the Right Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a key player in this recipe, providing not just creaminess but a rich source of probiotics that can enhance your gut health. Opt for a full-fat or low-fat version based on your dietary preferences. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, consider coconut yogurt, though it may impart a slightly different flavor and texture. When mixing the yogurt with honey and vanilla, do it thoroughly to ensure a consistent sweetness in every layer of your parfait.

For a delicious twist, try incorporating flavored Greek yogurt into the mix. Strawberry or vanilla yogurts are excellent choices that can add dimension to your layers. Just be aware that flavored yogurt may increase the overall sweetness of the parfait, so adjust the honey accordingly or omit it altogether if preferred.

Ingredients

For the Parfait

1 cup cooked quinoa
2 cups Greek yogurt
2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup granola
2 tablespoons honey (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

Rinse 1/2 cup of quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine the quinoa with 1 cup of water, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy. Allow it to cool.

Prepare the Yogurt

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until well mixed. Adjust sweetness to your preference.

Assemble the Parfaits

In serving cups, layer the yogurt, quinoa, sliced strawberries, and granola. Repeat layers until the cups are full, ending with a sprinkle of granola and a few strawberry slices on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing breakfast or snack option.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to mix in a few berries or nuts into the quinoa before assembling. You can also substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Strawberry Quinoa Parfait Cups, it's best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days, although the granola may lose its crunch over time. To combat this, consider storing the granola separately and layering it just before serving. This will keep your parfaits looking and tasting their best.

If you're making these parfaits in advance for meal prep, prepare all components separately and assemble them just before consumption. This not only preserves texture but also allows you to customize each serving according to taste preferences or dietary needs at the moment.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to experiment with various fruits to suit your palate or seasonal availability. Blueberries, peaches, or even a mix of tropical fruits can add exciting flavors and colors to your parfait. For those looking to increase the nutritional value even further, consider adding a handful of nuts or seeds for extra crunch and omega-3 fatty acids.

Serving your parfait in clear glasses can transform this breakfast into a visually appealing dish for brunch gatherings or family meals. Add a sprig of mint or a dollop of whipped cream on top for a touch of elegance. I love pairing my parfait with a warm cup of herbal tea, creating the perfect start to my day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! You can substitute with blueberries, raspberries, or even bananas based on your preference.

→ How long does the parfait stay fresh?

The parfait is best enjoyed within 2-3 days when stored in the refrigerator. Keep the granola separate if you want to maintain its crunch.

→ Can I make the quinoa ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the quinoa a few days in advance and store it in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the parfaits.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! These parfaits are great for meal prep. Just layer them in individual containers and grab them on the go.