2013, The International Year of Quinoa!

Quinoa has gained lots of popularity in the diet & health world. The Food and Agriculture Organization recognized 2013 as "The International Year of Quinoa". Quinoa has been identified as being a food with high nutrient content and great biodiversity. It is predicted that Quinoa will play a major role in establishing food security globally.

Quinoa has several health benefits, mainly its overall rich nutritional value. Most grains are categorized as inadequate in protein and do not serve as complete protein sources in our diet. While quinoa can be eaten similarly to grains, it has significantly higher amounts of protein and can serve as a complete protein source in our diet. Quinoa is also rich in antioxidants and is a good source of healthy fats, which promote the reduction in the risk of inflammatory diseases.  

One of my favorite salads is Quinoa Salad and the way my mom does it is simply delicious! As an ingredient quinoa is very versatile, it can be prepared in different ways and with different combinations of ingredients. My mom likes to keep it simple in 5 quick steps you can have your mouthwatering salad done in no time. 

1) Rinse the quinoa in water 

2) Combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil, then simmer it over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes 

3) Drain the water and wait till the quinoa has cooled down 

4) Chop up whatever veggies, cheeses, and  dried fruits you like anything works. The way my mom does it is by adding any available veggies, dried fruits, and cheeses. Options would be olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, celery, parsley, dried cranberry, dried raisins, avocado, toasted almonds, toasted pine nuts, hallumi cheese, feta cheese, or goat cheese. 

5) Combine the ingredients, season with salt & pepper, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar. Toss your salad to properly mix the ingredients & Enjoy! 

My Mama's Quinoa

            

From my plate to yours, 

Maria