One of my mother's favorite whole grains is quinoa. You can use it as a substitute for rice or pasta. Today, I decided to make a garlic herb recipe, which I usually use with couscous. In truth I think quinoa taste very similar to couscous, which is a pasta product.
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| Organic Quinoa is a whole grain food. |
Quinoa is a whole grain food. As a whole grain, it is found in sprouted spreads, whole grain breads, cereals, and even muffins. It has been processed as pasta because it taste very similar to pasta. Personally, I prefer quinoa in its whole form, usually found in breads, cereals, and cooked as is. I'm really not a fan of the processed pasta products. Now, many gluten-free folks may enjoy the pasta, but I love spelt pasta better than quinoa.
Quinoa is a low-fat, no cholesterol food. It is high in protein with one cup having as much as 8.5 grams of protein. It also contains 5 grams fiber per serving. Though it is a energy food with high carbohydrate, it is nutritionally beneficial with an array of vitamins (Vitamin C and Vitamin B-12) and minerals (Calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and zinc). As always, google for yourself the wonderful benefits of quinoa!
Not only does the below dish taste great, it is packed with nutrition from the fresh basil, thyme, and parsley in it from my herb garden. I have blogged about these ingredients already. If you have not done so, be sure to start in herb garden. It is pretty easy to maintain and that benefits of having one is priceless. Now, without further ado, here's today's recipe.
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| Garlic, onions, lemon thyme, parsley, and basil. |
GARLIC HERB QUINOA (Vegan)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked Quinoa
- 1 1/2 cups Imagine's No-Chicken Broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tsp fresh lemon thyme, chopped
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tsp Smart Balance butter (Use 1 tsp to saute onions and garlic and 1 tsp after)
Instructions:
- Combine quinoa, broth, and water in a pot over and bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes. Reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
- In a saucepan, sauté onions and garlic over medium heat until soft, about 5-7 minutes, then set aside.
- Once quinoa is finished cooking, pour in sautéed onions and garlic, 1 tsp of Smart Balance, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and herbs. Combine thoroughly and serve.
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| Garlic herb quinoa ready to serve. Yum! |
NOTE: You may also use olive oil for this dish, but if you do, increase salt amount to taste.
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I hope you enjoy this dish as much as I have. If you do, I'd love to hear from you!
