Katie Jones MS, RD

Quinoa, pronounced “keen-wah,” is a South American grain, considered to be a superfood, a great source of protein, iron, folate (needed for healthy pregnancy), magnesium (good for people with migraines) and fiber.  Not only is it high in protein but it’s amino acid profile makes it more of a complete protein than many other vegetarian sources of protein.  It is also gluten free.  Small and round, quinoa is a quick and flavorful way to get in a serving of whole grains. About the size of pellets of couscous, quinoa cooks in about 20 minutes, which makes it more doable on a week night when you don’t have an hour to wait for brown rice. The only special handling required with quinoa is to give it a good rinse before cooking; otherwise, it can be bitter.  Here are 15 recipes to try…Enjoy!