Quinoa Four Ways

Whether you’re packing lunch for work, school, or a long day of shopping, quinoa is one of your best bets. Sometimes thought of as a grain, quinoa is actually a complete-protein seed. It contains all nine essential amino acids (which our bodies can’t make and must acquire from food). It’s also very versatile; you can make dishes that are sweet or savory and it can be served at any meal of the day.

When cooking this complete protein, combine 1 part quinoa with 2 parts water. Bring to a boil, cover with a lid, and simmer on low heat until all water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and serve. Always be sure to wash this seed well before use to remove any bitter flavor. My favorite tip is to make a big batch at the beginning of the week and store in the refrigerator to use throughout the week. (Plant-based made easy!) Here are four of my favorite ways to eat this tasty seed.

Cherry Basil Quinoa

serves 2

• 1.5 cups cooked quinoa
• 1 cup chopped cherries
• 3 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• juice from 1/2 lemon

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, mix well. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for later use.

Curry Quinoa with Hummus

serves 2

• 1.5 cups cooked quinoa
• 1/4 cup chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 3 tbsp pine nuts
• 1/4 tsp curry powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2-1/4 cup hummus

1. Combine quinoa through salt in a large bowl, mix well.
2. Top with a scoop of hummus and serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for later use.

Blueberry Walnut Breakfast Quinoa

serves 2

• 1.5 cooked quinoa
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 3 tbsp chopped walnuts
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• juice from 1/2 lemon

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, mix well. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for later use.

Spicy Tomato Avocado Quinoa

serves 2

• 1.5 cups cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes (if using vine-ripe or beefsteak, remove seeds)
• 1/2 avocado, diced
• 1/4 tsp salt
• juice from 1/2 lime
• hot sauce to taste

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, mix well. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for later use.