10 wonderful ways with Quinoa
1st Jan 2015 Recipes
Quinoa really is one of nature’s superfoods, originally from the Andes and despite called the “mother of all grains” by the Inca’s it is actually a seed. Here are 10 ways to use Quinoa.
High in protein, vitamins and minerals, as well as being easy to cook it is a useful kitchen staple that has gained popularity in recent years. There is a fair amount of controversy about quinoa; the price is being pushed up by increasing demand with South Americans no longer being able to afford this traditional staple food and of course there are considerable air miles involved.
Quinoa can now be found growing in the fields of Essex (production last year was around 200 tonnes and increasing every year) and is sold and distributed by Hodmedods specialist in British peas and beans.
Image source: Hodmedods -Quinoa growing in the fields of Essex
Quinoa is really easy to cook—simply rinse and simmer with double the volume of water for 15 – 20 minutes. I usually add a handful every time I cook rice, to add some variety and texture.
Here are 10 Wonderful Ways for Using Quinoa:
Tomato Rice & Quinoa Bake with Roasted Vegetables
An easy one pot tomato and vegetable bake, perfect for a vegetarian weeknight supper.
Get the recipe here: Fuss Free Flavours
Smoked salmon, egg and quinoa bowl
A simple one bowl lunch containing that is both satisfying and endlessly adaptable. Helps avoid the mid afternoon slump.
Get the recipe here: My Fussy Eater
Beetroot and Red Onion Quinoa
This delicious and beautifully coloured salad will brighten your table on the dullest of days.
Get the recipe here: From the Healthy Heart
Courgette Quinoa Lasagna
Updating the classic dish, this summery vegetarian lasagne is filled with quinoa, courgettes and spinach.
Get the recipe here: Recipes From A Pantry
Warm Rice and Quinoa Salad with Tofu
Warm salads are perfect for those days when it seems that Spring is slipping back to winter. This one contains mixed grains, lots of vegetables and is topped with fried marinated tofu.
Get the recipe here: Fabfood4all
Quinoa, Asparagus, Pea & Lemon Salad
This salad is spring in a bowl. Serve at a lunch party or make up a batch and take to work each day for a light, but satisfying lunch.
Get the recipe here: Tamingtwins
Quinoa Bowl with Citrus Avocado and Edamame
This beautiful summer salad is packed with flavour and vegetables. You can buy edamame (fresh soy) beans frozen from most supermarkets, or use broad beans or peas.
Get the recipe here: Kellie's Food to Glow
Cheesy Quinoa Cakes
Served with a tartare sauce these four ingredient patties are super quick to make, as well as being a clever vegetarian alternative to fish cakes.
Get the recipe here: Amuse your Bouche
Fig & Blackberry Crumble with a Quinoa and Oat Crust
Blitz up some quinoa in your blender to make gluten free flour to use as a crumble topping.
Get the recipe here: Franglais Kitchen
Chocolate Quinoa Crunch Bars
Packed with toasted quinoa, seeds and dried berries these delicious bars are a guilt free delicious snack.
Get the recipe here: Rough Measures
Helen Best-Shaw, is a freelance food & recipe writer and blogger at Fuss Free Flavours.
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