Foods You Should Know About: Quinoa
Now, I don’t think I can consider myself a foodie if there’s certain food groups I will NOT eat. However, I do feel like I can share some of my favorite nutrition foods with you! I meal prep weekly and I try to keep it on the healthier side. Lately, most of my lunches have been vegetarian which has allowed me to venture out of my comfort zone. This will be a weekly series sharing a new food or ingredient that you should try to incorporate into your diet. This week’s ingredient is: QUINOA!
What is Quinoa?
Quinoa is technically a seed that can be prepared and eaten as a grain. It’s a staple in most nutrition plans as it is sometimes used as an alternate to rice.
Why should I eat it?
Well, if you have any gluten allergies, quinoa is your friend! It’s gluten-free, non GMO, and is usually organic. Adding quinoa to your meal will not only make your meal more savory and satisfying but you’ll be adding some protein to your meal!
Quinoa is also very high in fiber. There’s different types of quinoa but if you’re just introducing this to your diet, the differences are minor. Adding a cup of cooked quinoa to your day will give you around 5 grams of fiber.
Another great thing about quinoa is it’s low glycemic index which is great for those watching their blood sugar. Even if you aren’t diabetic, eating foods with a low glycemic index is preferable since you’ll feel satiated longer and you won’t be tempted to reach for junk food soon after you finish eating.
How should I eat it?
I absolutely love quinoa. One of my favorite things to do is to throw a bunch of steam veggies in a bowl with some cooked quinoa. It’s absolutely delicious and surprisingly filling! My current favorite way to eat quinoa is in the recipe from “Run Fast, Eat Slow”. The Quinoa Recovery Salad in this book is light enough for lunch but super filling. In this dish, quinoa acts as the main protein in this dish and is accompanied by bell pepper, onions, tomato, olive oil, carrots, kale, jalapenos and topped off with feta cheese!
Do you like quinoa? What’s your favorite way to eat it?
