Have you had your QUINOA today?

What is quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) anyway?  Well, it's often called a whole grain, but it's actually a seed of a leafy plant that can be subsituted for grains in cooking.  The people of South America have been using it as a staple in their diet for thousands of years.  They call quinoa the "Mother Grain" - and they call it that for a good reason; it's pretty close to being a perfect food with the balance of nutrition that it provides.  The nutritional profile is simalar to brown rice, only quinoa delivers more protein, and all eight essential amino acids.  It's a great source of B vitamins.  It contains high levels of riboflavin and potassium.  It's a good source of magnesium, zinc, copper, folic acid and vitamin E.  It's also gluten free, and can be substituted for just about any other grain.  Quinoa has a delicious nutty flavor, and is kind of fluffy, yet crunchy at the same time.  It's also lighter and less filling than other grains.  The following recipe is one of my favorites, that I make often.  It's fast, easy, and delicious! 

Cranberry Walnut Quinoa
Makes 10 servings

1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup frozen edamame beans (or green beans)
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 1/2 Tbsp EVOO
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper

Combine quinoa with 2 cups water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over hight heat.  Reduce to simmer, cover, and continue cooking until all the water is absorbed.  (about 15 minutes)

While quinoa cooks....In a small bowl, whisk the balsamic vinegar, olive oil and garlic until well blended and set aside.  In a medium bowl, combine dried cranberries, beans, walnuts and green onions.  When the quinoa is cooked, add it to the medium bowl, then pour the olive oil mixture over it.  Toss until well blended, then add salt and pepper.  (I acually never add the salt).  Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. 

Calories: 158, Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: 0g, Carbohydrates: 24g, Protein: 5g, Fiber: 6g