Quinoa has a very mild flavour, so quinoa recipes often rely on other ingredients such as lemon and garlic to create flavor. When cooked well, the grain can have a deliciously light and fluffy texture, pairing perfectly with richer foods and juicier textures.

To cook quinoa, start by rinsing the quinoa under a cool stream to wash away any bitterness. Then, in a saucepan, combine one part quinoa to two parts water - the golden ratio for grain perfection. Allow the water to boil before reaching a simmer. Cover your pan and let it cook for around 15 minutes, or until the grains have absorbed the water. Once absorbed, remove the lid and fluff up your quinoa with a fork. Your quinoa should have transformed from seeds into a fluffy bed of nutty goodness, all ready to absorb the flavors of your chosen quinoa recipe.

There are so many cuisines and dishes to add your quinoa to, including Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian recipes. You can even substitute quinoa in recipes that call for other grains such as rice and couscous. And there are very few salad recipes that can’t be enhanced with a sprinkling of quinoa mixed in.

Quinoa, often hailed as a superfood, brings countless health benefits to the table. Packed with essential nutrients, this grain (or seed if we’re being technical) is a rich source of complete proteins, containing all nine essential amino acids vital for muscle repair and growth. Quinoa is also gluten-free, making it an ideal option for individuals with gluten sensitivities. Moreover, its impressive array of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B-vitamins, contribute to enhanced energy levels and overall well-being. With its versatility in the kitchen and numerous nutritional advantages, incorporating quinoa recipes into your weekly meal plan is a delicious and wholesome way to support a healthy lifestyle.