Pronounced ‘Keen-Wha’.  It can be something that you see on a menu but because the way it is spelled, you think, no thanks, moving on!

But quinoa is absolutely something you should be eating at least once a week.  Are you adding it into your menu?  If not, keep reading and I’ll give you some suggestions on how to. But for now, what on earth is quinoa right?!

WHAT IT IS
– It is considered a grain but it comes from a seed of a plant and is related to beet, chard, and spinach plants.
– Most often you will see quinoa in a transparent yellow color, but you can also find orange, pink, red, purple, or black.
– They are very nutritious and have a slight nutty taste.

NUTRITIONAL FACTS:
– Good source of magnesium and manganese.
– Good source of protein.
– Provides healthy levels of Vitamin B2, Vitamin E, and fiber.
– It has good levels of iron, phosphorous, copper, and zinc.
– For anyone needed to eat gluten free, quinoa is an excellent grain source.

HOW TO STORE
– If buying in bulk, make sure there is no moisture in the bin and that it is covered.
– Quinoa should be stored in an airtight container at home and kept in a cool dry pantry for several months.
– It can be kept longer if stored in the refrigerator.

HOW TO EAT
– Quinoa can be used instead of rice or pasta.
– Combine quinoa with veggies and salad for a perfect lunch.  Check out this recipe here.
– Make a breakfast ‘quinoa oatmeal’ by adding in some almond milk to the cooked quinoa, top it with nuts, fruit, and a dash of cinnamon like this recipe.
– I also enjoy these quinoa cakes.

This is my go to quinoa choice.

Plus if you are a huge quinoa fan then this LoR original t-shirt is must.  So fun.