One cup of cooked quinoa (about 185 g) provides roughly 220 calories, 8 g of protein, and 5 g of fiber, per USDA FoodData Central. Quinoa is unusual among grains: it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a "complete" plant protein. It’s energy-dense like other grains — measure a ½ cup cooked portion if you’re watching calories, and pair with vegetables and protein.

Key facts:

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa: ~220 kcal
  • Protein: ~8 g (complete)
  • Fiber: ~5 g
  • Measure ½ cup portions