Thursday, September 29, 2016

Q is for Quinoa

ABCs for healthy living are quick takes on simple strategies for creating a healthier life.
Quinoa Salad
I discovered quinoa for the first time in 1998 in the high Andes mountains of northern Ecuador when we were on a volunteer medical mission trip.The sweet folks in the Quichua community where we were seeing patients served us this flavorful wholesome grain for lunch.

Who knew that all these years later quinoa would be so popular? This ancient grain was first cultivated by the Incas over 5000 years ago and the plant structure has changed little over the centuries.Quinoa is gluten-free and is a complete protein.It contains vitamins B and E, healthy minerals, antioxidants, all nine essential amino acids, and lots of natural fiber. 


Quinoa has joined the list of super foods because of its multiple health benefits.It has been shown to reduce or prevent inflammation, cholesterol levels, kidney stones,osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, anemia, and digestive problems.


To prepare quinoa, rinse thoroughly in cold running water or put it into a bowl and cover in cold water and let it sit for about ten minutes before draining and cooking.To cook quinoa, measure the amount you want and put it into a pot with double the amount of water. For one cup of quinoa, use two cups of water, etc. Bring the water and quinoa to a boil and then cover the pan and reduce the heat.Simmer on low to medium for about 10 or 15 minutes until the quinoa has absorbed all the water and is nice and fluffy. Add salt, olive oil, and other seasonings to the quinoa after it has cooked.


Quinoa can be used as a hot breakfast cereal, a hot side dish, and as a healthy addition to soups or salads.
I love quinoa in warm dishes but it is also delicious cold in salads.Check out this recipe.for Zesty Quinoa Salad


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