quinoa

I really love quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah). It is my new favorite healthy food. Let me tell you how awesome it is for you. It is actually a seed and looks similar to couscous. One cup of this goodness provides 5 grams of fiber, 8 grams of protein (same as a cup of milk) & all essential amino acids. It's also gluten-free, low glycemic (doesn't cause your blood sugar to spike), source of various B vitamins, contains immune system-boosting zinc, and iron. Lastly, it is an excellent source of magnesium (important for bone health, blood pressure control, and bowel health)...30% of your daily value! Okay...so you get the point...it's really healthy and nutritious for you!

Anyway, Lane and I have been eating it for awhile, but we've just eaten it plain or with spinach. Tonight, I found a great recipe that I'm going to share. It was SO delicious and SO good for you! Here it is!

Quick Quinoa & Turkey Taco Soup

Ingredients:
*small onion, diced
*8 oz 99% lean ground turkey
*1 medium zucchini, chopped
*1 small sweet pepper, chopped
*1 package of taco seasoning (low sodium)
*15 oz can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
*15 oz can of diced tomatoes with chilies
*14 oz can of broth (chicken, beef, or vegetables)
*1 cup quinoa
*1 tbsp lime juice
*Non-stick cooking spray
*Shredded Mexican cheese blend (optional)

1. In a large pot sprayed with non-stick cooking spray, brown the ground turkey and onion over medium heat.
2. Add the zucchini, peppers, and taco seasoning. Stir to coat all the veggies with the seasoning.
3. Add the beans, diced tomatoes, broth and quinoa. Turn up the heat to high and bring to a boil. Then cover and simmer about 20 minutes until quinoa soaks up most of the liquid.
4. Stir in the lime juice and serve. You can sprinkle cheese on top.

Nutrition Facts:
Serves 6 people (1 serving is 1 cup)
Calories per serving: 250
Fat per serving: 4g
Fiber per serving: 7g

Anyway, just thought I would share this awesome recipe. I'd love to know if anyone has recipes to share with me that uses quinoa or if anyone likes quinoa, too! Have a good night!!