What not is there to love about quinoa? That “super food” pronounced keen-wa, (not Key-no-a) and is a grain that comes from the Andes Mountains of South America. Quinoa contains more protein than any other grain; an average of 16.2 percent, compared with 7.5 percent for rice, 9.9 percent for millet, and 14 percent for wheat. Some varieties of quinoa are more than 20 percent protein. Not to mention all the protein, it is gluten free and fits right in to a gluten free, non inflammatory diet.
Quinoa’s protein is of an unusually high quality. It is a complete protein, with an essential amino acid balance, a grain a complete protein, Yes! Quinoa’s protein is high in lysine, methionine and cystine.
Rich & Balanced Source of Nutrients
Besides its unique protein, quinoa also is high in essential linoleic acid), fiber, minerals, and vitamins.
Easy on the Stomach
Quinoa is light, tasty, and easy to digest. It is not sticky or heavy like most other grains, and it has a delicious flavor all its own. Quinoa has a unique nutty flavor that goes well in many different recipes.
Quick and Simple to Prepare
A whole-grain dish of quinoa takes just 15 minutes.
Versatile
Quinoa can be substituted for almost any grain in almost any recipe. It looks and tastes great on its own, or in any dish from soup to salad to cookies or muffins! You can find quinoa in several forms from pasta, flour, flakes to its traditional grain form, which makes it very easy to add into several different types of recipes
Perfect for Summertime
Many people eat grains only during the colder months, but quinoa’s lightness combined with its versatility in cold dishes like salads and desserts makes it an ideal source of good summertime nutrition.
Kids love it!
Quinoa is an excellent source of nutrition for infants and children. As a complete protein and good source of nutrients including fiber and iron, if your kids love it, you love it!
** Did you know that one serving 1/2 cup cooked quinoa has 12% daily iron requirements
Quinoa is 35 on the Glycemic Index, considering it a grain that does not spike blood sugar and keeps your blood sugar levels stable, helping keep you satiated and from experiencing extreme hunger and cravings. Also this makes it a super diabetic friendly food!
Quinoa is an Alkaline food and not acidic. Most people eat too many acid foods which lead to health problems, it is important to eat Alkalizing foods to have a proper balance. Unlike oatmeal, quinoa is a grain that is Alkaline!
You may be one to get use to your typical grains from oatmeal to brown rice but you must not forget about our super food, Quinoa. It is summer and what not a better time to try one of our favorite quinoa recipes such as our Quinoa Melody.
For more information on Quinoa, click HERE.
