Inca’s called it their “Golden Grain” because they believed it increased the stamina of their warriors and hunters. Although quinoa dates back more than three to four thousand years ago, these days it’s all the hype and finding its way to our kitchen tables and restaurants. Lately, it is being referred to as “ The Super grain Of The future”, for some good reasons.
Health Benefits of Quinoa
- Protein-rich: quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all 9 essential amino acids, lysine included. Lysine is an essential amino acid responsible for our tissue growth and repair.
- Contains more fiber than other grains: quinoa contains almost twice as much fiber compared to other grains. Fibers relieve constipation, reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol, aid weight loss, and reduce the risk of diabetes, heart diseases, and hemorrhoids.
- High levels of iron: iron is important to keep our red blood cells healthy. It carries oxygen to our cells, muscles, and tissues, and improves brain function.
- Good source of magnesium: magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a role in over 300 enzyme reactions. It provides a better sleep, relaxes our nervous system, builds strong muscles, reduces stress, alkalizes your body, facilities sugar metabolism, etc.
- High in riboflavin (vitamin B2): b2 is vitally important for proper energy production in your brain, cells, and muscles.
- Rich in manganese: manganese is a powerful antioxidant to protect your body (especially your mitochondria and red blood cells) from damage done by free radicals.
- Gluten-free
FYI: Although quinoa is still high in carbohydrates, and should be eaten in moderation, it is by far one of the better grains to add to your diet. It is gluten-free and 1 serving contains 48% of your daily need of magnesium. It contains no cholesterol and is very low in sodium and a good source of protein if you’re a vegan or vegetarian.
ALSO READ: The Health Benefits Of Amaranth, Quinoa’s Lil’ Brother
Spicy Quinoa with Roasted Vegetables and Avocado Cream
Although I have made this recipe before, It’s never the same though. I still had a leftover feta cheese in the fridge so added feta cheese this time.
I have made this recipe for friends and family before, but added organic grilled chicken breast as for most of my friends no meat is still a step too far in their journey to live a healthy lifestyle and that’s perfectly ok for me. I’m not a vegan or vegetarian myself, but don’t eat meat, fish, or dairy daily… and when I do I prefer to buy organic meat.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
Roasted Vegetable
- ½ a butternut squash, peeled, cubed, and deseeded (or 1 to 1 ½ cups)
- 1 big sweet potato (or 2 small), peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pecans or almonds
Curried Avocado
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and mashed
- ½ red chili pepper, finely chopped (or to taste if you like it more or less hot)
- ½ lime, juiced
- ½ teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon raw honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Quinoa Salad
- ½ cup uncooked quinoa
- Pomegranate arils
- Vegetable stock or stock cube
- Feta cheese (optional)
- Spinach
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 435°F (220°C)
- Whisk together the olive oil or coconut oil, chili powder, garlic powder, maple syrup, and salt and pepper in a small bowl.
- Spread the sweet potato and butternut cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle the oil mixture over the veggies and toss to coat. Roast until tender and slightly brown, about 30 to 40 minutes. Stir the veggies halfway through. During the last 10 minutes add pecans or almonds.
- While the veggies roast, rinse and cook the quinoa in vegetable stock.
- To make the curried avocado, mash the avocado and stir in the chili pepper, lime juice, curry powder, ginger, honey, salt, and pepper. If you don’t like it too chunky, use your food processor to create a cream-like consistency.
- Add spinach to a plate and top with quinoa, roasted vegetables, curried avocado, pomegranate arils, and feta cheese.
ENJOY 😉
Thanks for reading. I hope this information was helpful. Until next time!
Amy Goodrich
Crazy cat lady, life and food lover, certified biologist, and holistic health coach.
