Quinoa has really made it big these days; and I am ALL about it! Quinoa is often described as a grain, but it is technically the seed of a grain. As a seed, it packs a ton of protein, making this a great choice for a carb/starch side in place of the usual rice, pasta, and potatoes. I am often asked how to prepare quinoa; and I always tell people that it is kind of absurdly easy.
Here is the basic formula for cooking quinoa:
- 1 part quinoa to 2 parts water
- Bring to a boil over high heat in a small sauce pan, then reduce heat to low and cover
- Cook for 15-20 minutes
- Fluff with a fork and Done!
Now, that you know how to cook quinoa through, you can basically do ANYTHING with it. Still, you might want a starter recipe; this Lemon Herb Quinoa with Greens recipe is for you! It makes the perfect side to almost anything. Hope you enjoy!
Lemon Herb Quinoa with Greens
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon crushed garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, julienned
- 1 tablespoon fresh flat leaf parsley, chopped
- 1 cup spinach, kale, or power greens mix, roughly chopped.
Directions:
Place the quinoa, water, and salt in a small pot. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook until the quinoa has absorbed the water and the quinoa has puffed, 15-20 minutes. Fluff with fork.
While the quinoa cooks, mix the lemon zest, juice, olive oil, pepper, and crushed garlic in a small bowl.
Once you’ve fluffed the quinoa, add the basil, parsley, and chopped greens. Mix until the greens are wilted. Add the lemon and oil mixture into the bowl and toss. Season with additional pepper and serve.
Tell me, how do you make your quinoa?
Johnny La Pasta 