Vanilla Protein Quinoa Chia Pudding

This creamy quinoa pudding is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. Made with wholesome ingredients like quinoa, chia seeds, almond milk, and protein powder, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings—and just as tasty chilled as it is warm. Ideal for meal prep, this recipe makes six generous servings to keep you fueled throughout the week.

‍Prep/Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

To cook the quinoa:

• 1 cup dry quinoa
• 2 cups water
• Pinch of sea salt

For the pudding:

• Cooked quinoa (about 3 cups)
• 4½ cups unsweetened almond milk
• 6 tablespoons chia seeds
• 3 scoops vanilla protein powder
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for a chocolate version)
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• 2–3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional, to taste)

Optional add-ins & toppings:

• 3 tablespoons hemp seeds
• 1½ cups fresh raspberries or sliced banana
• Shredded coconut, cacao nibs, or chopped nuts
• Dash of cinnamon or cardamom

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa:
   • Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness.
   • In a medium pot, combine quinoa, water, and a pinch of salt.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
   • Turn off the heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
2. Make the Pudding:
   • In a large saucepan, combine cooked quinoa, almond milk, chia seeds, protein powder, and salt.
   • Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
   • Stir frequently for 7–10 minutes until the mixture is slightly thickened and warmed through.
3. Flavor It Up:
   • Remove from heat and stir in cocoa powder (if using), vanilla extract, maple syrup or honey to taste, and any optional spices or hemp seeds.
4. Let It Set:
   • Allow the pudding to rest for 10–15 minutes so the chia seeds gel and the mixture thickens.
   • If it becomes too thick, stir in more almond milk as needed.
5. Serve or Chill:
   • Top with your favorite fruits, nuts, or coconut.
   • Enjoy warm, or chill in the fridge for up to 4 days. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Nutrition Facts (per serving – about 1 cup)
Calories: 310  |  Total Fat: 9g  |  Saturated Fat: 1.5g  |  Sodium: 240mg  |  Total Carbohydrate: 31g  |  Sugar: 8g  |  Dietary Fiber: 7g  |  Protein: 16g