A healthy breakfast is a great way to start off your morning. This gluten free Apple Quinoa Breakfast Bowl is an easy way to do that!
If you are like me, you like to eat breakfast! Breakfast is one of my favorite meals of the day. So many options!
I like to make this apple quinoa breakfast bowl at least once a week and then eat it two days in a row. I split it up, eat half and store half. Works like a charm. And on the off chance that my hubby is home, he might eat the other half.
Quinoa is so easy to make and so versatile. You can use a variety of liquids along with water and it just always seems to turn out.
This recipe calls for apple juice and water as the cooking liquids. I also make it with coconut milk on the days that I want to lower my carbs a bit. Both work and both turn out beautifully.
Tools Needed
As with most of my recipes, nothing fancy is needed to make this delicious apple quinoa breakfast bowl. You will need:
What Are the Best Toppings for a Quinoa Breakfast Bowl?
You can top this with any delicious topping that you desire! Some of my favorites are walnuts, caramel, Greek yogurt and extra cinnamon! Sometimes even a few chocolate chips.
Berries and pears are also a favorite.
Is Quinoa Healthier Than Oatmeal?
Ooh, the age old debate! There are several camps on this one. There is only ONE reason that I choose quinoa over oatmeal and that is because quinoa is gluten free. I mean, so is oatmeal, but it is highly cross contaminated and is generally not recommended for those staying away from gluten.
Quinoa is higher in protein (and it is a complete protein), lower in fat, higher in carbs, and lower in fiber. There are pros and cons for each one, but all in all, they are both a pretty close choice. Mix it up, use both, or pick your favorite!
How to Make an Apple Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
Add quinoa, apple juice and water to a small saucepan and heat over medium heat. Bring to a boil and cover. Cook until the quinoa is soft, about 25 minutes.
Add the honey or maple syrup, cinnamon and milk to the saucepan. Mix well and set aside.
Place all the ingredients for the cinnamon apples in a separate pan and heat over medium heat. Cook until the apples are soft, around 4 minutes.
Health Benefits of Quinoa
Quinoa is high in manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, folate and vitamin B1 (thiamin). Gotta love those vitamins!
It also contains powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. It also has a lower glycemic index which is great for diabetics. I am a type 1 diabetic, so I appreciate this! And lastly, it has been studied that quinoa has positive effects on metabolic health and may help you lose weight. SOLD!
Now, I generally eat on the lower carb side and quinoa is certainly not skimpy on carbs. But it is perfect for a few mornings a week when I allow my carb count to be higher.
What to Enjoy With This Gluten Free Breakfast Bowl
Some of my favorite things to eat with this apple quinoa breakfast bowl in the morning are yogurt, fresh berries, and almond butter. I love adding a little crunch with chopped almonds or chia seeds. If I’m in the mood for something savory, I add cooked bacon or sausage. The possibilities are endless! It’s a great way to start the day with a healthy, delicious breakfast that will keep me fueled all morning long.
If you want a delicious muffin to eat alongside this as a morning treat, be sure to try these gluten free oatmeal muffins. Not only are they gluten free, but they don’t contain any added sugar! The delicious sweetness comes from pure maple syrup. Score!
Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Variations
Now, if want to make a delicious variation, you can forgo the apples and, instead, make these delicious cinnamon bananas and lay them on top. However, I will warn you that you will want to eat them all on their own!
Other Gluten Free Breakfast Recipes
Gluten Free Blueberry Pancakes
Apple Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
Ingredients
- ½ cup quinoa
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup unsweetened apple juice (or coconut milk for lower carb)
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup almond milk
Cinnamon apples
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon water (more if needed)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
Optional Toppings
- Walnuts, caramel, Greek yogurt and extra cinnamon
Instructions
- Add quinoa, apple juice and water to a small saucepan and heat over medium heat. Bring to a boil and cover. Cook until the quinoa is soft, about 25 minutes.
- Add the honey or maple syrup, cinnamon and milk to the saucepan. Mix well and set aside.
- Place all the ingredients for the cinnamon apples in a separate pan and heat over medium heat. Cook until the apples are soft, around 4 minutes. Add more water if needed.
- Serve big bowls of quinoa topped with the cinnamon apples.
