Make room for Quinoa

Have you incorporated this highly nutritious food into your meals?

Quinoa is considered a grain, but actually it is an edible seed from a plant related to chard or spinach. You can find it in many stores and cooking these tiny little sees could not be easier. (Similar to cooking rice and other grains, but much quicker.) To cook, simply combine 1 part quinoa with 2 parts water. The texture is similar to couscous with a bit more crunch and a mild nutty flavor.

Quinoa is packed with nutrients and it's gluten-free making it an easily digested food for almost everyone. It contains eight essential amino acids and is therefore considered a great source of complete protein – one of only a few non-animal sources of complete protein. It’s also rich in magnesium which helps to relax blood vessels and contributes to good cardiovascular health as well as reduces migraine headaches.

Quinoa is a great source of manganes, a trace mineral that helps your body use key nutrients like thiamin and ascorbic acid, protects cells from free-radical damage, promotes thyroid health and helps the body synthesize fatty acids and cholesterol.

Its rich insoluble fiber content puts it on the list of foods that help reduce the risk of Type II diabetes and prevent gall stones.

As you can see for yourself, this little “grain” would make an excellent addition to your pantry. Try it in place of rice for dinner, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon, soy or almond milk and fresh fruit for a tasty breakfast. You can also use it instead of couscous next time you prepare tabouli.