Over the past few years, nutritionists have been praising the health benefits of ancient grains such as quinoa. But they don’t say a whole lot about how to incorporate them into our daily meals. Don’t let the mystery of quinoa keep you from making use of it! Here are some delicious and healthy ways you can get more of this yummy grain into your diet.
Why use quinoa?
Over the past few years, the word “quinoa” has been tossed around among nutritionists and health-conscious individuals in an almost trendy way, but its health benefits and versatility aren’t often explained in a manner that’s easy to understand. Like many other grains, quinoa can be used in a variety of ways, which means keeping a box around your house is sure to come in handy. But unlike some other grains, quinoa is an incredible source of protein, and it’s gluten-free. It also offers a unique nutty flavour and grainy texture you can’t find anywhere else. In addition, it cooks quickly and is easier to whip up than you might expect. Here are just a few ways you can start incorporating quinoa into your daily diet.
Salads
Quinoa is probably best known for how well it can be incorporated into salads. Its slight crunch and nutty flavour add a special quality to a mixture of veggies that other grains do not. Looking for inspiration? Try an avocado quinoa salad. Unlike other salads, where the lettuce can wilt and get soggy when mixed with dressing, quinoa salads stay fresh for far longer. This makes them an excellent work lunch. You can whip up a batch the night before and take a container of it with you to work. It will fill you up beautifully and doesn’t need a microwave to be enjoyed. It’s the perfect take-anywhere meal!
Burgers
Although you may have heard of using quinoa in salads, it is less commonly known that this grain can also be used to make meat-free and gluten-free burgers. Plus, since quinoa is an excellent source of protein, making quinoa burgers doesn’t mean you have to miss out on that important component of a healthy diet. So the next time you have people over for a barbecue, you can tend to any dietary restrictions you come across!
Baked goods
Although typically seen as a tiny, round grain, quinoa can be transformed into an oat-like product referred to as quinoa flakes. And just like oats, these flakes are great when used in baked goods. Don’t believe us? Give this cranberry banana quinoa bread a try.
Have some fun
Incorporating quinoa into your diet becomes easy when you start to think of it as just another grain. Rather than serving your chicken dish over rice, serve it over quinoa. Rather than making a couscous salad, make a quinoa one. This ancient grain is unique, delicious and versatile, so have fun with it, and find new and exciting ways to use it in your everyday cooking. You won’t regret it!
more quinoa recipes
Quinoa recipes: Gluten-free and easy
Summer quinoa recipes
Healthy recipes to kick-start your diet
Leave a Comment