Quinoa has been trendy for years. People make fun of it for being too cool; there’s even a great commercial where out-of-touch people attempt to pronounce it! But, it really is a tasty and healthy seed that is packed with fiber and nutrients. It’s worth adding to your diet.
Quinoa is a grain-like seed that is rich in antioxidants, fiber and protein. You simply boil it with a ratio of one part quinoa to two parts water until it’s fluffy. It has a slightly chewy bite to it and a nutty taste. A full cup has 222 calories, 8.14 grams of protein, 39.4 grams of carbs and 5.18 grams of fiber. It also has 28 percent of your daily magnesium, 16 percent of your iron and seven percent of your potassium. Because of the high amount of fiber and protein, quinoa has a low GI of 53 and can help keep blood sugar normal and help you stay full. When you are looking for something to fill the role of a grain, quinoa is a great option! Here are four delicious quinoa recipes to try!
These delicious side dish bites are perfect — even for picky eaters! The quinoa and cauliflower are hidden from sight. That makes it easier to sneak in healthy ingredients that some people might turn their noses up at! They are cheesy and crispy after being baked in a muffin tin. They are sure to be a hit! A serving has 110 calories, 9.3 grams of protein, five grams of carbs and 1.3 grams of fiber. Get the recipe.
These aren’t exactly a healthy side. But, compared to any real tater tot, these are a monument to healthy choices! If you are craving tater tots, these really do hit the spot. Even though they are made without potatoes and deep-frying, you will be as happy as a clam enjoying these tots! Unlike tater tots, you’ll be enjoying protein and fiber with this side! A serving has 108 calories, 5.5 grams of protein, 14.9 grams of carbs and 4.5 grams of fiber. Get the recipe.
This is a side dish, but if you add some chickpeas, tofu or chicken to add more protein, this could easily be a main dish for a vegetarian or meat-eater. It’s a delicious salad that is perfect for summer. We love southwestern salads for their citrus and spicy flavor profiles. Having many big flavors is the trick to keeping meals exciting to help you stay on a healthy track! A serving of this as a side portion has 185 calories, six grams of protein, 20 grams of carbs and six grams of fiber. Get the recipe.
White rice is one of the only foods we say you should totally remove from your diet. It’s nutritionally equivalent to eating table sugar. But, jambalaya needs rice for body. This recipe with quinoa has extra protein and fiber and keeps the same feeling as the regular version, and we love it. The dish has plenty of vegetables, and it is very filling. It’s a perfect, tasty meal that we adore! A serving has 282 calories, 20 grams of protein, 29 grams of carbs and six grams of fiber. Get the recipe.
We hope these recipes grace your table soon! Quinoa is more than just trendy: it’s delicious. We think if you try it, it might quickly become a staple in your home!
