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Fun Facts

Quinoa (keen-wah) is hard to pronounce but easy to eat! It grows at 12,000 feet -- that's almost three miles above sea level. Its roots are in the Andes in South America where it's been growing for more than 5000 years. Quinoa means mother grain or chisoya in the Inca language. We now know that quinoa isn't really a grain -- it's the edible seed of a fruit. Quinoa seeds are covered with soapy-tasting saponin that keeps bugs away as the plant grows. It's usually rinsed off after harvest, and the soapy water mixture is used to wash clothes. Pretty cool!

Star Power

This puffy little seed is a real superfood. Quinoa is a complete protein, with all 9 essential amino acids - these aminos can't be made by the body and must come from food. Quinoa is also an energy builder, with high levels of micronutrients to help with muscle growth, and lots of fiber to calm upset tummies. Antioxidants, B vitamins and magnesium are important for cardio health. Quinoa even contains copper, a trace element used by every organ, and especially for healthy bones and connective tissue like tendons. Did you know that NASA packs quinoa as a nutrition-rich snack on the International Space Station? Quinoa really is out of this world!

Quick Preps

PREPARE:

1. Place quinoa seeds in a fine mesh strainer and wash under cool water.
2. Bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil, then add 1 cup of quinoa.
3. When water or broth returns to a boil, lower to a simmer and cover for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from stove and let stand covered for 5 more minutes. Uncover and fluff with a fork.

• Keep cooked quinoa in your fridge and add to salads, wraps, soups, and stews.
• Make a quinoa salad. Mix quinoa with fresh herbs, veggies, olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt and pepper.
• Use quinoa in place of oatmeal. Mix with nuts, nut milk, maple syrup and sliced bananas or blueberries.