Hi Chef Sylvia,
I am attempting to eat healthy and I need some help with a quinoa dish that isntt wimpy (most of them are). I noticed that Certe seems to really do a good job with it. REally, does healthy food have to be meek? Any other suggestions would be appreciated too.
Alexandra
Manhattan
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Hi Alexandra,
It is a great idea to introduce Quinoa to your diet on a regular basis.
At Pizza by Certe, we usually sell out of our Pizzas featuring a Quinoa crust
so delicious!
Quinoa contains more protein than any other grain; an average of 16.2 percent, compared with 7.5 percent for rice, 9.9 percent for millet, and 14 percent for wheat. Some varieties of quinoa are more than 20 percent protein.
Quinoa: A Body Grain
Quinoa has several qualities that make it an ideal grain:
§ Quinoa acts as a prebiotic that feeds the microflora (good bacteria) in your intestines.
§ Quinoa is easily digested for optimal absorption of nutrients.
§ Quinoa is gluten-free and safe for those with gluten intolerance, or people on a celiac diet.
My advice is not to create dishes using Quinoa as the star; but to use it to supplement your favorite existing dishes. This way you get the taste and satisfaction while receiving the health benefits of Quinoa. I suggest one day a week you cook some plain Quinoa and leave it ready to use in the refrigerator. I have added it to Mashed Potatoes, Risotto, Oatmeal, Pastas, Vegetables, Tacos, Omelettes, Pancakes, etc. The whole idea is to utilize this grain throughout the day and enjoy the consistent energy it brings. Example, Taco meat (Chicken, Beef, Turkey or whatever), replace 1/3 with Quinoa and enjoy your full serving.
Health Benefits
In addition to protein, quinoa features a host of other health-building nutrients. Because Quinoa is a very good source of manganese as well as a good source of magnesium, folate, and phosphorus, this super grain may be especially valuable for persons with migraine headaches, diabetes and atherosclerosis, as it works to relax blood vessels. So I can certainly understand your obsession with this healthy grain.
Keeping It Fresh!
Chef Edward Sylvia