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Overhead view of a hearty vegan quinoa stuffing with mushrooms, celery, apples, and herbs in a ceramic bowl

Quinoa Stuffing (Vegan + Gluten-Free) – A Wholesome Holiday Side Dish


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This Quinoa Stuffing (Vegan + Gluten-Free) is hearty, herby, and packed with veggies, apples, and mushrooms. A lighter, protein-rich twist on classic stuffing—perfect for holidays or cozy dinners, and loved by vegans and non-vegans alike.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked quinoa (use broth for more flavor)
  • 3 tablespoons vegan butter or olive oil
  • 1 white onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt (plus more to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 5 celery stalks, finely diced
  • ½ fennel bulb, finely diced
  • 8 oz white mushrooms, finely diced
  • 1 red apple, cored and diced
  • Leaves from 6 sprigs thyme
  • Leaves from 1 sprig rosemary (about 1 tbsp)
  • 2 sage leaves, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts


Instructions

  1. If not already cooked, prepare 1 cup dry quinoa according to package directions using broth for extra flavor.
  2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp butter or olive oil. Add onion, salt, and pepper. Sauté 2 minutes, then add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
  3. Stir in celery, fennel, and mushrooms. Cook 10–15 minutes until softened and mushrooms release juices. Let excess moisture cook off.
  4. Add herbs, apple, and optional nuts. Cook 3–5 minutes until apples soften slightly.
  5. Stir in cooked quinoa and remaining butter. Mix well and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Notes

This stuffing is vegan, gluten-free, and full of flavor. Perfect for make-ahead prep—store in the fridge 1–2 days before baking or freeze for up to 2 months. Add dried cranberries for a pop of sweetness, or stuff into squash or peppers for a beautiful centerpiece.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg