Quinoa, a hearty and healthy whole grain!

Quite the craze right now, quinoa seems to be everywhere right now...there are even comedic commercials about it! Even though quinoa is considered a whole grain, you are actually eating the seeds of the grain crop. Either way, quinoa is considered a complete protein, providing the body with all 9 essential amino acids, which is extremely rare for any grain source. Quinoa also possesses phytonutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Another big fad right now is gluten-free, which quinoa also happens to be so there is a decreased, very low risk of allergy. Not only is quinoa delicious on its own but it is a great substitute for rice or pasta and a great addition to any soup or stew. Since quinoa is such a super food, I figured I'd share a few of my favorite recipes and uses for quinoa. 1. Baked Quinoa Broccoli Casserole I have made this swapping the broccoli for zucchini or asparagus but really, you can use any veggie you like in this recipe.

2. Mexican Quinoa I have added in diced green chilies before or used a can of tomatoes with diced green chilies or habaneros in place of regular diced tomatoes. I also add in some taco meat, but you can add in any protein of your choice, if any!

3. Hearty Chicken Stew with Butternut Squash & Quinoa I add an extra 1/2-1 cup of chicken broth, I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and I use fire roasted tomatoes for an extra boost of flavor. Also, I have made this recipe both with and without the olives (using only about a 1/2 cup when I do add them in) so feel free to omit them if you are not an olive person.

4. Parmesan Quinoa Bites I use regular or whole wheat flour instead of rice flour and have used zucchini instead of carrot before.

5. Quinoa Stuffed Peppers (Giada recipe, subbing quinoa for orzo)

Lastly, a great way to serve quinoa as a delicious side dish or even main dish is to prepare it as you would risotto. Toast the quinoa with onions and garlic (and any other veggies you like, i.e. mushrooms, asparagus, etc) in a little olive oil until slightly browned. Add a cup of warm chicken broth, simmering until it is absorbed, then add another. Repeat until quinoa is cooked through. Once done, add in any cheeses or wilty vegetables (spinach, arugula, kale, etc) and serve with extra cheese for topping. Delicious, easy and healthy!