Eating well doesn’t have to be dull. To help start your year off right, we’re sharing a series of light and delicious recipes that will keep you from binging on boredom! We’re kicking things off with a grain that’s been under-appreciated for much too long. Quinoa is an important power food – high in protein content, essential amino acids, dietary fiber, phosphorus, magnesium and iron. It’s also gluten free and considered easy to digest. It’s a great way to replace enriched starches in your diet.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups hot chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced and quartered
  • 1 butternut squash, sliced and quartered
  • salt and pepper to taste

In a medium saucepan, mix the quinoa and broth. Cook on medium heat until the water is completely absorbed, about 15-20 minutes. Now comes the fun part. You can add all your favorite herbs and spices, or just a little garlic and onion to keep things simple. Season to taste.

In a frying pan, saute the zucchini and squash in a tablespoon of olive oil until just barely tender. Toss together with the prepared quinoa to create a butternut squash quinoa and serve warm, paired with grilled chicken of fish. You can also serve it cold as a salad.

For another variation, toss the cooked quinoa with some cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper, and top with feta cheese crumbles. Enjoy!