One of the most popular grains in the marketplace today is quinoa. To prepare quinoa from scratch, start by rinsing half a cup of raw grains under running water. This step is important because it helps remove the bitter-tasting saponins naturally found in quinoa. Drain well, then, add it to a pot, along with liquid. Let it simmer on the stove for about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit for another 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

A half-cup of raw quinoa will yield one and a half cup cooked, so you can easily store the leftover in the fridge for next day’s lunch.