What is Quinoa?
Quinoa is not technically a grain, because its source is not a grass. It is a seed from the goosefoot family and is related to beets, Swiss chard and spinach. White quinoa can commonly be found; orange, red, purple, gold and black varieties also exist.
With a protein content of 12-18 percent, quinoa is a rare non-animal food that provides a balanced set of essential amino acids, which means that it provides a complete protein by itself.
Quinoa also contains more than 20 percent of the U.S. recommended daily allowance of manganese, magnesium and iron. One-quarter cup has only 158 calories, and also contains fiber, B-6, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, copper and zinc.
To cook quinoa, add one part quinoa to two parts water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer 14-18 minutes. Quinoa can also be cooked in a rice cooker.
Quinoa Basil and Fresh Corn Salad
1 1/2 cups uncooked quinoa, rinsed well
1 tsp. salt
2 cups fresh (about 4 ears) or frozen corn
1 cup tightly packed basil leaves, finely chopped
1/2 cup diced sun dried tomatoes (soaked in hot water for 15 minutes prior to slicing)
1/2 cup diced red onion
2 Tbs. olive oil
3 to 5 Tbs. fresh lemon juice (1 to 2 lemons)
In medium saucepan, combine quinoa, salt and 3 cups water. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cover, reduce heat to low and simmer 12 minutes.
Add corn, cover and cook until quinoa is tender but still a little crunchy, about 3 minutes.
Drain quinoa mixture and transfer to large serving bowl. Toss well with fork, fluffing quinoa. Set aside to cool slightly.
Add basil, peppers and onion. Stir in oil and enough lemon juice to give salad a distinct lemony edge. Adjust seasonings to taste and serve.
Serves about 6, enjoy!
Recipe from:
From Tricia Martin Holistic Health Coach | Eating Designer | Food Writer & Photographer. Check out her blog at eatingisart.com inutes. Enjoy!
Another site of interest is www.quinoa-recipes.com or check out Quinoa, Spinach and Walnut Stirfry on http://www.relishmag.com/article/34249.html