Quinoa is a food that is relatively new to my diet. About two years ago, when I was training for my bikini competition, I discovered this new tasty carbohydrate that helped change things up in my bland diet.
One of the things that drew me to quinoa is that it’s also packed with protein. There aren’t many other whole grains that you’ll find that are also a good protein source, so quinoa is a must try (especially for vegetarians or vegans to get in their protein!)
Quinoa can be eaten warm or cold. It’s great to serve warm as a bed under chicken or fish, however it’s also great when cold and sprinkled onto your salad.
(Hint: Hover over the image above to pin or share so you can remember these to try later!)
What is Quinoa?
(Prononced KEEN-wah) I still know a lot of people who have never tried quinoa, so let me explain what it actually is. Although most people think of it as a whole grain, it’s actually a seed but can be prepared the same way as whole grains like barley or rice. Quinoa, a species of goosefoot, is a grain crop grown primarily for its edible seeds. It is a pseudocereal rather than a true cereal, as it is not a member of the true grass family. (Wikipedia)
What’s The Nutritional Information of Quinoa?
As I stated earlier, this whole grain is high in protein and carbohydrates but is also packed with 9 essential amino acids. It’s also gluten free and cholesterol free!
According to CalorieCount , 1 cup of cooked quinoa has 160 calories, 3 grams of fat, 3 grams of fiber, 29 grams of carbs and 6 grams of protein.
For a more in depth information on the nutrition of quinoa, check out this article about quinoa benefits.
How Long does Quinoa Take To Cook?
No idea how to make quinoa? No problem! Quinoa can be prepared even quicker than other whole grains. It will usually take about 10-15 minutes (unless you get one of the instant quinoa packs..then it’s even faster)
How To Prepare Quinoa
Prepare quinoa as you would prepare rice. Cover it with water or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once quinoa is soft, let simmer for a total stove time of about 15 minutes. Or, place 1 part quinoa to 2 parts water in your rice cooker and prepare it the same way as rice.
Here are a few of my favorite quinoa recipes that I’ve seen around the web recently. Hope these can help you find ideas on how to make quinoa for your next meal.
Quinoa Chicken Nuggets
Oh my gosh, I need to try these ASAP. What a great idea by Creme De La Crumb!
Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe
Thanks to Cooking For Keeps for sharing this recipe. Thanks guys, now I’m totally craving Chinese food, however I think this would do just the trick!
Quinoa Crust For Pizza or Cheesy Bread
If you’re anything like me, you have a weakness for pizza. The Wholesome Dish created this delicious looking pizza crust or cheesy bread stick recipe. Looks SO yummy, doesn’t it??!!
Quinoa Apple Banana Breakfast Cups
Created by Pumps and Iron, this breakfast recipe would be great to cook for meal prep on Sunday and then grab one on the go every morning.
Quinoa Granola Bars
These ideas keep getting better and better! I had no idea you could make granola bars out of quinoa, until I found this recipe by Delicious As It Looks.
Blueberry Quinoa Pancakes
Back to another breakfast recipe by CookingQuinoa.net.
As you can see, the opportunities with Quinoa and how to make quinoa are endless. So many tasty ideas!
I have to say, switching from most of the whole grains I was eating previously to quinoa has greatly improved so many things I can’t even list them all. Perhaps the biggest and easiest to notice is the increase in energy and a lack of the bloated feeling after consuming it that usually accompanies eating things like rice. The pizza one is new to me as is the chicken nuggets, I’ll have to give those a try.