Rinse the quinoa: Place in a fine-mesh strainer. Rinse thoroughly with cool water about 2 minutes. Rub and swish with your hand while rinsing. Drain.
Toast quinoa in a saucepan (optional). Heat a drizzle of olive oil in the saucepan over medium-high heat, and add the drained quinoa. Cook, stirring, for about 1 minute to let the water (from rinse) evaporate and toast quinoa.
Add liquid and bring to a boil. Stir in 2 cups of water or broth or combination and the salt. Bring to a rolling boil.
Lower heat and cook, covered, for 15 minutes.
Remove from heat. Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
