Cooked QuinoaVSRaw Quinoa

Comparing different preparation states of Quinoa

Cooked Quinoa

Complete
Contains all 9 essential amino acids. High bioavailability.
Cereal Grains and Pasta USDA #168917
Protein4.4g
Cals
120
Fat
1.9g
Carbs
21.3g

Raw Quinoa

Complete
Contains all 9 essential amino acids. High bioavailability.
Cereal Grains and Pasta USDA #168874
Top Protein
Protein14.1g
Cals
368
Fat
6.1g
Carbs
64.2g

Nutritional Comparison Summary

When comparing Cooked Quinoa and Raw Quinoa, there are notable nutritional differences that can influence your dietary choices. Raw Quinoa contains 9.7g more protein per 100g serving, representing a 221% difference in protein content. With 14.1g of protein, Raw Quinoa is the superior choice for those prioritizing protein intake. For those watching their calorie intake, Cooked Quinoa offers only 120 calories per 100g compared to 368 calories in Raw Quinoa. Both options provide complete protein, containing all essential amino acids needed for muscle synthesis and recovery. In terms of protein efficiency (protein per calorie), Raw Quinoa delivers more protein for fewer calories, making it an efficient protein source.

Best For Your Goals

Muscle Building & Recovery

Raw Quinoa

With 14.1g of protein per 100g, Raw Quinoa provides the higher protein content needed to support muscle protein synthesis, post-workout recovery, and lean muscle maintenance.

Weight Loss & Calorie Control

Cooked Quinoa

At only 120 calories per 100g, Cooked Quinoa allows you to maintain a calorie deficit while still getting essential nutrients, making it ideal for weight management and fat loss goals.

Maximum Protein per Calorie

Raw Quinoa

Raw Quinoa offers the best protein-to-calorie ratio, delivering 14.1g of protein for just 368 calories, perfect for maximizing protein intake while minimizing caloric load.

Vegetarian & Plant-Based Diets

Raw Quinoa

Both are excellent plant-based options. Raw Quinoa edges ahead with 14.1g of protein per serving, making it slightly better for meeting daily protein requirements on a vegetarian diet.

Low-Carb & Ketogenic Diets

Cooked Quinoa

With only 21.3g of carbohydrates per 100g, Cooked Quinoa fits perfectly into low-carb and ketogenic meal plans while providing substantial protein to maintain muscle mass during carb restriction.

General Fitness & Balanced Nutrition

Raw Quinoa

For everyday fitness enthusiasts seeking balanced nutrition, Raw Quinoa offers a good protein content at 14.1g with 368 calories, fitting well into most active lifestyle meal plans.

Key Differences

Protein Gap
9.7g
221% difference
Calorie Gap
248
207% difference
Fat Gap
4.2g
Carb Gap
42.9g

Category Winners

💪
Most Protein
Per 100g serving
Raw Quinoa
📉
Lowest Calories
For weight loss
Cooked Quinoa
Best Efficiency
Protein per calorie
Raw Quinoa
Source: USDA FoodData Central • Data as of 2026-01-05