Quinoa is a whole grain with high protein content and an excellent nutritional profile. For example, one cup of cooked quinoa weighing 185 g provides 8.14 g of protein, nearly double the protein content of most grains!
Quinoa’s protein profile offers a wide range of amino acids, one of them being Lysine which can potentially boost collagen synthesis and even the complexion. Quinoa is also a good source of antioxidants like quercetin, kaempferol and Vitamin E, with anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing properties.
Another advantage of quinoa is it’s naturally gluten-free and higher in nutrients—than, for example, brown rice. It is a good source of Iron, Manganese, Magnesium and fibre.
Many people avoid quinoa because of its taste, but did you know it can be easily changed? Adding some herbs and lemon juice is the easiest way to elevate your quinoa experience.
This recipe is an excellent example of making quinoa taste better by dressing it with other ingredients
The recipe is straightforward. You’d need to cook your quinoa and add some fresh blueberries, cashews, mint, parsley and lemon. It would make a perfect base for a veggie / tofu bowl, or side salad.
Lemon Cashew Blueberry Quinoa
Ingredients
- 1 cup white quinoa cooked
- 1/2 cup parsley finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mint finely chopped
- 1 cup blueberries fresh
- 1 cup cashews chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest grated
- 1/4 cup olive oil extra virgin
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- To a large bowl, add cooked quinoa, chopped parsley, mint, cashews and blueberries.
- To a small glass jar add lemon juice, olive oil, lemon zest and salt. Shake well to combine.
- Add the dressing to the quinoa and then mix all the ingredients. Serve chilled or at room temeperature.
