Can you freeze cooked quinoa? Short answer: YES. Read on to find out more about how and why you should freeze cooked quinoa.
Why you’ll love it: Having cooked quinoa in the freezer is a food prepping trick that saves you a ton of time and enables you to make quick healthy meals.
How long it takes: half hourEquipment you’ll need: large covered pan, freezer bags or containersServings: makes 9 cups
Editor: Yes, you can definitely freeze cooked quinoa; it’s one of our favorite healthy meal shortcuts. Let the cooked quinoa cool down completely, then transfer it to a resealable plastic bag. Press all the air out before sealing, then pat the quinoa into an even layer before freezing.
How to Freeze Quinoa
Here’s the quick version. Scroll down to the recipe card for the full run-down.
- Cook quinoa as directed on the package. Keep in mind it about triples in size, so choose a big pot!
- Cool completely. I usually put it in a bowl and toss it in the fridge uncovered so the steam can escape.
- Portion and freeze. I like to freeze in 2 cup portions, but if you have a favorite recipe that takes three cups, or 1, or 10, do that!
- Flatten out the freezer bags and label with contents, quantity, and date. Freeze for up to 10 months.
Can you freeze quinoa?
This has probably become clear to you, since you’re reading this post, but yes, you can! It’s one of my favorite kitchen shortcuts. I don’t ever cook a partial bag of quinoa; I always make the entire thing. It’s so much easier to only do that work once rather than every time you need quinoa for a recipe.
I cook the entire bag, let it cool, and then put it in measured portions in zip-top bags. I flatten them out so they fit nicely in my freezer, label them with the date and quantity, and then freeze until I need them again.
They thaw quickly (especially when they’re flattened out), and they make my life (and yours!) SO MUCH EASIER.
How to Bulk Cook Quinoa (in the Oven!) and Freeze it for Later
FAQ
Does quinoa freeze well?
How long does uncooked quinoa last in the freezer?
How do you store leftover quinoa?
Can you freeze cooked rice and quinoa?
Can you freeze cooked quinoa?
Press all the air out before sealing, then pat the quinoa into an even layer before freezing. It’s ready to go whenever you need a quinoa fix; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator! You can also just freeze it in an airtight, freezer-safe container too. Readers, any other tips about freezing quinoa? Next question? Q:
How long can cooked quinoa be stored in the refrigerator?
With proper storage, cooked quinoa be stored in the refrigerator for 5 days. Always check it when you remove it from the refrigerator and if there are any off smells or visible signs of mold or a milk liquid present, you should discard it.
Can You defrost frozen quinoa?
To defrost: The best thing about frozen quinoa is that there is no need to remember to take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Instead, you can take it out of the freezer and let it thaw on the counter for 45 – 60 minutes before using it in your recipe. You can use this method for any type of quinoa.
How long does frozen quinoa last?
Frozen cooked quinoa that has been prepared and packaged safely can last up to eight months to a year. As with all frozen foods, the sooner you eat it, the better the flavor and texture will be. How can you tell if quinoa has gone bad?