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Quinoa Pilaf With Shiitake Mushrooms

Section: Perfect Side Dishes to Complete Any Meal

This hearty quinoa pilaf transforms the versatile superfood into an elegant side dish featuring sautéed shiitake mushrooms, tender carrots, and toasted pecans. The earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with sweet carrots while fresh herbs and garlic add depth. Ready in just 35 minutes, this protein-rich dish works equally well as a substantial side or light vegetarian main course.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Sat, 16 Aug 2025 14:47:23 GMT
A bowl of quinoa pilaf with shiitake mushrooms, carrots and pecans. Bookmark
A bowl of quinoa pilaf with shiitake mushrooms, carrots and pecans. | ioanacooks.com

This quinoa pilaf with shiitake mushrooms, carrots, and pecans is a hearty and earthy dish that is packed with flavor and texture. It works beautifully as a side or a main course and comes together quickly for a wholesome meal. I first made this on a busy weeknight and was amazed at how satisfying and flavorful it turned out.

Ingredients

  • Quinoa: fluffy and protein-rich, forms the base of the pilaf
  • Low-sodium broth: adds savory depth, vegetable or chicken options work
  • Olive oil: helps sauté vegetables and enriches flavor
  • Yellow onion: adds sweetness and aromatic base
  • Carrots: provide color and gentle sweetness
  • Dried thyme: enhances the earthiness of the dish
  • Shiitake mushrooms: tender and savory, key for umami flavor
  • Garlic: adds warmth and aromatic depth
  • Pecans: toasted for crunch and nutty flavor
  • Fresh parsley: brightens the dish and adds freshness
  • Salt and black pepper: essential seasoning to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Quinoa and Broth:
Place quinoa and broth in a medium saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until quinoa grains are translucent and the germ forms a spiraled tail. Add extra broth if needed for fully cooked grains.
Sauté Onions:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and fragrant.
Cook Carrots and Thyme:
Add diced carrots and dried thyme to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until carrots are tender but still have slight bite, stirring occasionally.
Add Mushrooms and Garlic:
Add remaining olive oil along with thinly sliced shiitake mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until mushrooms are tender. Season with salt and black pepper.
Combine Quinoa with Vegetables:
Stir the cooked quinoa into the vegetable mixture until evenly combined.
Add Pecans and Parsley:
Fold in chopped pecans and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm immediately.
A close up of a dish with quinoa, mushrooms, carrots and pecans. Bookmark
A close up of a dish with quinoa, mushrooms, carrots and pecans. | ioanacooks.com

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave and add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for different nutty flavors Replace shiitake mushrooms with cremini or button mushrooms for a milder taste Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian or vegan friendly

Serving Suggestions

Pair with roasted meats like chicken or turkey for a wholesome dinner Serve alongside a green salad for a balanced meal Top with crumbled feta for a tangy variation

A bowl of quinoa pilaf with shiitake mushrooms, carrots, and pecans. Bookmark
A bowl of quinoa pilaf with shiitake mushrooms, carrots, and pecans. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

Quinoa originates from the Andean region of South America and has been celebrated for centuries as a nutrient-dense seed. Combining it with mushrooms and nuts adds an earthy modern twist while highlighting its versatility in global cuisines.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute other mushrooms for shiitake?

Yes, cremini, portobello, or button mushrooms work well. Shiitakes provide the most earthy flavor, but any mushroom variety will add great texture and taste to this pilaf.

→ How do I know when quinoa is properly cooked?

Properly cooked quinoa turns translucent and the white germ partially detaches, forming a spiraled tail. If it still has a slight bite, add more broth and continue cooking for a few minutes.

→ Can this pilaf be made ahead of time?

Yes, this pilaf reheats beautifully. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely. Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make it completely vegetarian while maintaining all the rich flavors and nutritional benefits.

→ Can I toast the pecans myself?

Yes, toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. This enhances their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch to the pilaf.

→ What makes quinoa different from other grains?

Quinoa is technically a seed, not a grain, and contains all essential amino acids making it a complete protein. It's also naturally gluten-free and cooks much faster than most grains.

Quinoa Pilaf With Shiitake Mushrooms

Nutritious quinoa pilaf with shiitake mushrooms, carrots, and pecans for a hearty, flavorful side dish.

Time Needed to Prep
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
20 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Side Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: Mediterranean

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves (4 side dish servings or 2 main course servings)

Dietary Preferences: No Gluten, Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Base Components

Ingredient 01 1 cup quinoa, pre-rinsed or thoroughly rinsed
Ingredient 02 1⅔ cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
Ingredient 03 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided

→ Aromatics and Vegetables

Ingredient 04 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
Ingredient 05 2 small carrots, peeled and diced
Ingredient 06 4 ounces fresh shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and thinly sliced
Ingredient 07 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Seasonings and Garnish

Ingredient 08 ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
Ingredient 09 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Ingredient 10 ⅓ cup chopped pecans, toasted if desired
Ingredient 11 ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Combine quinoa and broth in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until quinoa is tender and translucent with white germ forming spiraled tails, about 15 minutes. If still firm, add additional broth and cook 2-3 minutes more.

Step 02

While quinoa cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, 2-3 minutes.

Step 03

Add diced carrots and thyme to the onions. Cook until carrots are just tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, 5-7 minutes.

Step 04

Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil along with sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until mushrooms are tender and golden, 2-3 minutes. Season vegetables with ¼ teaspoon salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 05

Fold the cooked quinoa into the vegetable mixture until evenly distributed. Add chopped pecans and fresh parsley, stirring gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving warm.

Extra Tips

  1. Quinoa is done when grains turn translucent and white germ partially detaches forming spiraled tails
  2. Shiitake mushrooms require minimal cleaning; gently wipe with damp cloth and remove stems at cap junction
  3. Toasting pecans in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes enhances their nutty flavor and adds textural contrast
  4. This pilaf can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth

Tools You'll Need

  • Medium saucepan with tight-fitting lid
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Sharp chef's knife for chopping vegetables
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Fine mesh strainer for rinsing quinoa

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains tree nuts (pecans)
  • May contain gluten if using regular chicken broth (check labels)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 341
  • Total Fat: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 35 grams
  • Protein Amount: 8 grams