The most common color of quinoa, White quinoa is actually a bit more tan than white, so sometimes it’s called tan quinoa, ivory quinoa, golden quinoa, yellow quinoa, blond quinoa, or just quinoa. White quinoa has the most delicate taste and the lightest texture and it cooks up a bit fluffier than other types of quinoa.

Black quinoa has more of an earthy flavor than white quinoa and is ever so slightly sweeter.

Red quinoa (which takes on a brownish hue when cooked) has a richer taste, slightly chewier and heartier texture, and somewhat nuttier flavor compared to white quinoa. It’s often the quinoa of choice for cold salads as it holds its shape better during cooking.