#84 Quinoa

My first experience with quinoa (pronounced 'Keen wah') was as a side dish at a restaurant. Impressed by its texture and taste I purchased a couple cups of it at my neighbourhood dried goods store. While making my purchase I learned that quinoa is a superfood. Being high in protein and fibre, it is a great food to incorporate in one's diet if trying to lose weight. Be sure to do an internet search on the many other health benefits of quinoa! Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• ½ tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 small shallots, finely chopped
• 1 dash fresh lemon juice (optional)

Directions:

1. In a small fry pan melt 1 tbsp of butter. Melt the other tbsp of butter in a larger frying pan.

2. In the small frying pan add the shallots and garlic. Saute until transparent.

3. In the larger frying pan, add the quinoa, and toast, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in water, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until quinoa is tender.

4. In a bowl, toss quinoa together with sautéed shallots and garlic. Add parsley, thyme, salt, and onion. Sprinkle with lemon juice, and serve.

(Serves 4)

I use Epicure Selection's Herb Garlic Salt instead of regular salt. If interested in this product, visit my website at www.christinafonstad.myepicure.com