Honey Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa- Did you know that Quinoa has almost twice as much protein as Oatmeal? Or that it has more vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants than any other grain? Power up your mornings with this easy Honey Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa.
What's up with this little thing called quinoa? (pronounced KEEN-wa) Has it taken over the world? It seems like every restaurant or grocery store I've been in lately...there's quinoa.
Quinoa salads. Quinoa burgers. Quinoa & Chicken. Stir-fry over Quinoa. Quinoa...quinoa...quinoa.
I was thinking to myself..hmmm...I love quinoa, I cook with quinoa. It's really tasty and I know it's healthy, but what's all the fuss? Why does everything have quinoa? Am I missing something?
And then I Googled.
OH! Who knew! This little gem is more than just healthy, it's a nutritional ROCK STAR!
Here's just a partial list of quinoa's stellar resume:
1. "Super" Grain- Contains more vitamins, nutrients, antioxidants and fiber than any other grain. Enough said, we all know that for optimum health we need all of the above, and if you can get it all in one place (and more of it) sweet!
2. High in Protein- Proteins are the body's building blocks: bones, muscles, skin and blood are all made up of protein. Getting enough lean protein in ones diet is important for overall health. If you are following a Vegetarian or Vegan diet, getting enough protein can be challenging. Quinoa is one of the only plant-based foods that is a "complete protein" which means it contains all nine essential amino acids, and can help make sure you are getting proper protein intake.
3. Promotes healthy blood sugar levels- Quinoa is rich in complex carbohydrates, which digest slowly, keeping your blood sugar levels even and helping you feel full longer.
4. Maintains efficient heart and blood vessel functions- Several studies tout this super grain as a good source of magnesium, an important mineral required for optimal metabolism, cardiovascular, and blood vessel function.
5. Gluten Free- Quinoa is technically a seed (from the Goosefoot plant- native to the Andes mountains in South America) So if you have gluten sensitivities or Celiacs (or just trying to reduce wheat in your diet) quinoa is a perfect substitute for pasta, wheat flour, and oatmeal.
6. Low in fat- Quinoa is extremely low in fat compared to other grains, and the bit of fat it does contain is almost all made up of essential fatty acids, or omega-3 fatty acid, which are necessary healthy fats.
7. Chameleon - o.k. I added this one. Quinoa's mild taste (subtly nutty) and rich texture make it a perfect canvas for so many meal options. Like this Breakfast Quinoa! for a hearty and heart healthy breakfast. Fresh blackberries and peaches mixed the quinoa and sweetened with honey and cinnamon.
So I guess I now understand what all the fuss is about, and why quinoa is showing up everywhere. Quinoa is now moving to the front of my pantry. Time to come up with some new quinoa recipes!
Honey Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa
Ingredients
- ¼ cup low-fat milk
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup quinoa rinsed
- ½ cup blackberries
- ½ cup peaches diced
- â…› teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave
- 1 tablespoon pecans or your favorite nuts, like almonds or walnuts
- sliced fresh fruit for topping i used grapes, strawberries, blackberries, & peaches
Instructions
- Bring milk, water and quinoa to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15 min. until all liquid is absorbed and quinoa is soft and translucent.
- Let cool 5 min. Stir in blackberries, peaches, cinnamon and honey.
- Serve in individual bowls and top with additional fresh fruit and pecans.
You may want to drizzle a little extra honey on top for some additional sweetness.
Leave a Reply