To start 2011 off the right way, I am making more of a concerted effort to eat better. Cue spotlight on: Quinoa. This power-grain is loaded with protein, takes less than 20 minutes to make, and can be added in to many dishes for additional nutrition. I like to keep it in the fridge ready to throw into a pasta dish, toss in with sauteed vegetables, or sprinkle on a salad. Quinoa's mild flavor makes it incredibly versatile.
Ingredients:
Red or regular colored Quinoa
1 medium sweet potato, diced
1/2 or smaller can of diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
1 clove of garlic, minced
What to do:
1. Prepare the Quinoa as directed
2. While it's cooking, saute the sweet potatoes in a little olive oil over a medium heat
3. After 10-12 minutes the potatoes should be tender, so add in the tomatoes, black beans, and garlic
4. Let simmer together until beans and tomatoes are heated through, then add the quinoa once it finishes cooking.
Salt and pepper to taste.
