Quinoa

Quinoa

Quinoa being harvested in its native region by the indigenous people there. It has been part of their diet for millennia.

Quinoa is a grain which originates in the Andean region of South America. It is very nutritious and even boasts a high protein content of 14% before cooking. It is the only other vegetative source of complete protein commonly eaten other than soybeans. While it has been part of the food culture of various peoples in South America for thousands of years, in the past decade it has become wildly popular in the Western world due to its nutritional content. Some schools may be behind in adding this wonderful whole grain to their menus, but if that is the case, here are several wonderful recipes from our Health-e-Pro recipe database which can be used.

Recipes

Carrot and Quinoa Muffins - Recipe #2624

(1 muffin = 1 oz WG, 1/8c R/O)

Start the day off right with these wonderful quinoa and carrot muffins which also include yogurt in the recipe to ensure a moist product. A bit of cinnamon and orange peel lend great flavor.

  • 1 Oz (Eq) Of Whole Grain-Rich
  • 0.125 Cups Of Red/Orange

Peppy Quinoa - Recipe #1801

USDA B-27r, 1.25WG; 1/8 cup Other

Chiles, cilantro, pumpkin seeds make this quinoa dish a great side for Tex-Mex day as a whole grain rich alternative to Spanish rice.

  • 1.25 Oz (Eq) Of Whole Grain-Rich
  • 0.125 Cups Of Other

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Dried Cherries - Recipe #1567

1WG; 1/2 c Fruit

This cold quinoa salad would be a terrific addition to a spring menu and could become a staple if it becomes popular. The combination of dried cherries, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives is best suited to an adventurous palate for adults and high school students. Make this a grab and go entrée with the addition of a sliced chicken breast

  • 1 Oz (Eq) of Whole Grain-Rich
  • 0.5 Cups of Fruits

Quinoa, cooked 1WG - Recipe #1331

This basic quinoa preparation is an introduction for those unfamiliar with its preparation. Additionally, the inclusion of several recipe links at the bottom of the page will inspire you to include quinoa in recipes on your menus.

  • 1 Oz (Eq) Of Whole Grain-Rich

Brown Rice & Quinoa Pilaf - Recipe #667

(1/2C = 1oz WG, .75oz MMA)

This is a simple combination rice and quinoa pilaf which is enriched with a bit of cheddar cheese allowing a M/Ma credit. It can easily be adapted to almost any Flavor profile.

  • 1 Oz (Eq) Of Whole Grain-Rich
  • 0.75 Oz Of Meat/Meat Alternates