Ask HealthNutGirl:
What is quinoa and what do I do with it?
I get asked this question so often
So if you haven’t yet discovered the delights of quinoa
Please jump in
This wonderful fluffy and light grain is a must have in every healthy kitchen!
Quinoa, pronounced kin-wa
Is a grain that has been around for thousands of years
It comes in many varieties
White, yellow, red and black
You can also find rainbow quinoa
Which is a combination of the above
Quinoa is a super grain
Botanically it’s not really a grain
But a seed from the spinach family
With the nutrition composition of a grain
Quinoa is highly nutritious
It does not contain gluten
so it’s a heaven sent for people who have gluten sensitivities
It is high in protein
High in fiber
And a great source of iron, magnesium and calcium
Quinoa is very versatile
And can be eaten all year round
In the autumn and winter include it in:
~ Soups
~ Stews
~ Casseroles
~ Pilafs
And in the spring and summer include it in:
~ Stir fries
~ Salads
~ Fruity desserts
Including quinoa frequently can help you to:
*Lower blood pressure
*Lower cholesterol
*Increase energy
*Lower blood sugar levels
*Improve digestion
*Reduce cravings
*Reduce inflammation
The basics of making quinoa:
1. Measure one cup of dry quinoa
Rinse it well in a fine strainer under running water
This is very important
The quinoa will have a bitter taste if you don’t rinse it first
Because of saponins, a bitter coating around the quinoa
2. Put in medium sauce pan with 2 cups of water or broth
3. Bring to a boil
4. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes
until all the liquid is absorbed
Your quinoa is ready!
You can have it plain as a side dish like rice
Or create a variety of dishes with it
I love quinoa salads in the spring and summer
and create endless variations of them
Here is a quick and yummy
Quinoa Tabouleh:
Mix cooked, cooled quinoa with chopped cucumbers and tomatoes
Add lots of chopped fresh parsley
You can also add chopped onion and/or garlic
I love cubed avocados in mine
Dress with a little olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste
Great served on top of salad greens or in lettuce cups
Have fun with this amazing grain
And create your own variation of quinoa dishes
Fall in love with healthy food
Xoxoxo
Rachel
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