Elizabeth Platt

QUINOA (pronounced KEEN-wah)

Quinoa is a super food.  Although most think it is a grain, it is actually the seed of a leafy plant related to spinach.

If you’re looking for a complete protein food, Quinoa is the perfect choice.  It is considered a complete protein because it is a source of ALL the essential amino acids. Plus it is high in the amino acid lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair.

It is also high in iron and calcium and is a good source of manganese, magnesium and copper.  Plus it's a great source of fiber without the heavy feeling some fiber rich food produce shortly after eating.

Quinoa is also a versatile food and can be eaten for breakfast with cinnamon and raisins as a porridge, served warm as a substitute for rice, or made into salads that can be served cold anytime. This is my new favorite Quinoa recipe. It is super easy to make and delicious every single time with lots of compliments from guests.

My Friend Kim’s Best Quinoa Salad Ever

1 cup uncooked Quinoa

1 cup roasted pine nuts or other nuts (I have used pecans, cashews, or walnuts if I don’t have pine nuts)

½ cup red onion

1 Red or orange bell pepper

English peas or regular frozen (English are a little crunchier)

Cook 1 cup Quinoa according to package directions. While the quinoa is cooking, chop or dice other ingredients. Mix cooled Quinoa and other ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Cover with dressing (see recipe below) and chill for 2 hours before serving.

Dressing

1/3 cup olive oil

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1 Tblspn sugar

1 tspn spicy brown mustard

1 tspn garlic salt

Please share with someone who would enjoy or if you try the recipe and like it!

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