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Health & Fitness

Crushing on Quinoa...My Favorite Super Food!

They say "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" and while I'm a huge fan of apples for their many health benefits, I'm an even bigger fan of quinoa since discovering it several years ago.

Quinoa?

They say “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” and while I’m a huge fan of apples (particularly honey-crisp apples) for their many health benefits, I’m an even bigger fan of quinoa (pronounced “keen-wah”) since discovering it several years ago.  I am always in search of new, healthy foods but quinoa brings new meaning to the word healthy.

What is Quinoa?

Quinoa is an ancient grain-like crop from South America, grown mainly for its edible seeds.  It’s easy to prepare and cooks up in less than 20 minutes.  Known as a super-food because of its high protein content (18%) and the fact that it contains all 9 essential amino acidsit’s a complete-protein source!  For a gluten-free vegetarian like, me that is a HUGE deal!  Not to mention, quinoa is delicious and can be used in many different dishes, seasoned a variety of ways, served at breakfast, lunch or dinner.  Now, maybe you understand why I’m head over heels in love with quinoa!

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Quinoa has a bit of a nutty flavor but like tofu, tends to take on the flavor of whatever it’s seasoned with.

How to Eat Quinoa?  

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These are my favorite ways to enjoy quinoa:

Click on the links to see the entire recipe…

 

You can eat this ancient grain pretty much any way you like!   Add to soup, casseroles, cookies – there are many healthy chips out there as well!  Quinoa chips taste great paired with salsa or guacamole.  A 12 oz bag of quinoa and black bean chips at Trader’s Joe’s will set you back about $2.69.

Where to Find Quinoa?

 You should be able to find it in the natural foods section of your grocery store or near the grain bins.  Trader Joes offers a lot of great quinoa products, as does Whole Foods Market.   I normally buy several pounds of uncooked quinoa to keep on hand in my kitchen.

How to Cook Quinoa?

Whole Foods Market shows you how to cook quinoa in 3 easy steps!  I prefer to cook up a big batch at the beginning of the week, making it easy to warm up for breakfast or add to a salad or other dish.  Just season and serve!

For more healthy living tips and recipes, as well as coupons, freebies, online codes, household tips and more visit Extreme-Couponing-Tips.com

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