My mother introduced me to quinoa. I had read about it in magazines and online, but I really didn’t have any idea as to what it was. She and I were at the grocery store, she pulled it off the shelf, and I looked at her funny. When it comes to food, I’m usually not very good at change. However, on that day, I am so glad we made that purchase. Now, I try to incorporate quinoa into my meals as much as possible.
While searching for more recipes online, I have come across some interesting facts about quinoa that I was completely unaware of.
5 Quinoa Facts (source)
- It is a complete protein (includes all 9 essential amino acids).
- It was considered a sacred food by the Incas.
- It is a seed, not a grain and it is a relative of leafy green vegetables.
- Because it is high in protein, it is a great choice for vegetarians and vegans.
- It can be used in everything from breakfast, to baking into something, to a side dish for dinner.
Last night I fixed quinoa and threw some other stuff together for a surprisingly fast, easy, and tasty meal.
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1/3 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1/2 avocado (chopped)
- avocado oil (to taste)
- lime juice (to taste)
- 1 Tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)
- salt (to taste)
- Prepare quinoa according to directions.
- In a bowl add beans, avocado, and cilantro.
- Pour cooked quinoa on top of ingredients in bowl.
- Drizzle avocado oil over everything.
- Add lime juice and salt. (Note: I like the tartness of lime juice and salt. Add as much or little as you like.)
- Mix well and enjoy!
Are there any new foods that you have incorporated into your diet that you can’t seem to get enough of?