Grain Side!

Pasta. Rice. Potatoes. Pasta. Rice. Couscous? Pasta. Rice...

Does this sound like your usual starch rotation? If it does, I'm going to blow your mind...quinoa.
Yes, that magical, mystical grain! It tastes nutty, kind of like an earthy rice. Containing complete proteins (in case you worry about your vegan friends), it's as easy to cook as rice. Try it out plain or, if you are feeling adventurous, check this out...

*Not So Blah Quinoa*
(serves 4)

1/2 small red onion, diced
1 Tbsp minced fresh ginger
3 Tbsp minced dried mango (or dried apricots, cranberries, pineapple...use what you have)
2 tsp olive oil
3/4 cup uncooked quinoa
1 1/2 cup water (or veg broth or chicken broth)
1/2 tsp salt
black pepper

In a sauce pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add onion, mango and ginger. Saute until onion is translucent. Add salt, pepper and quinoa. Stir around to coat grains, about 7-10 minutes. Add water and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low and simmer 15 minutes or so.

Nutrition Info: Calories 158; Fat 4g; Carbohydrate 26g; Fiber 3g; Protein 5g; Sugars 0
WW Points: 3