I have found a new love. It’s quinoa, folks! I’ve gone quinoa cray-cray! (I actually just like saying the word cray-cray…it makes me giggle) It makes such a great meal, or side dish. I am happy that I have discovered it because now it has become a staple in my apartment. I can’t say the same for the boyfriend, who can’t even stand to look at me while I eat it. I get a side eye from him when I pull it out of the pantry (lack of meat & potatoes equals lack of interest for him). So I call it my “guilty pleasure” food.
this is typically the kind of look I'll get from him when I pull out the quinoa. It's all good. More for me.
It is a superfood and it’s totally good for you! Here’s more info on it if you’re interested in some of the benefits of quinoa.
I typically buy it in bulk, but I really never know how much to buy and end up not getting enough for myself. So the other day I found it at the grocery store in a pre-packaged bag for about $6 in the organic foods section.
I have to say I am really digging this brand. Not sure if it was the way I cooked it or what but the grains came out much fluffier and tastier than before. Success!
my new comfort food. move over, mac n cheese.
The things I am loving to put in my quinoa so far: a dash of EVOO, cumin seasoning (I can’t say this without thinking of Teresa from “The Real Housewives” pronouncing it…ha), garlic powder, feta cheese, broccoli, dash of salt & pepper. Last night I added chicken and it was really filling. In fact I made a meal out of just the quinoa.
Next I plan on adding risotto to it…I found a great recipe on the Skinny Chef website so we’ll see how it turns out!
Another quinoa product I totally dig – Ancient Harvest Quinoa Pasta.
One of my gluten-free friends hipped me to this about a year or so ago and I can say I’m definitely a fan! I love to add chopped garlic, evoo, salt & pepper, and Ragu’s Light Alfredo sauce to it and sometimes add shrimp for some protein. It’s delish! Like better than Olive Garden delish. Okay maybe not but it comes close. Your hips will thank me later.
I think I’ll cozy up on the couch with a nice helping of quinoa tonite…with my christmas socks on, of course. It’s only necessary.
Are you a fan of quinoa? If so what do you put in it?
Don’t like quinoa? What do you eat at Olive Garden? I’ll go balls to the wall on their soup salad & breadsticks.
