Fit Fare

I’m from deep in the heart of Dixie. I’m about as southern born, bred and fed as they come. Hence, one of the reasons for me needing to lose weight! Back in April, the New York Times reported that most demographics were experiencing increases in life expectancy. But one group was lagging behind and even seeing their life expectancy cut short. That group is southern women. Seems us southern belles are beginning to be quite bell shaped. Maybe just maybe, it could be the fact that southern belles tend to cook and enjoy deep fried anything with heaps of creamy gravy on top. I could be wrong, but that just might play a factor in our shape and shorter life expectancies.

In March of 2007 I too found myself rather bell shaped and decided to do something about it. In my quest to regain my health, I started researching tasty and healthy recipes that could guide me to a healthier body. It was during that search that I discovered my new favorite grain. Quinoa (pronounced keen-wa) wasn’t a familiar grain to me. Maybe it’s because you can’t find recipes calling for deep fried quinoa. But back to my point, Quinoa is said to be one of the healthiest foods available! In fact, David Grotto has this cute little grain listed in his book titled 101 Foods That Could Save Your Life. He says:

Nutritionally, quinoa is an amazing grain. Quinoa contains more protein that any other grain. And what’s unique about the protein in quinoa is that it is complete, containing all essential amino acids, being especially high in the amino acids lysine, methionine, and cystine. Quinoa is rich in iron, potassium, and riboflavin as well as B6, niacin and thiamin. and it’s also a good source of magnesium, zinc, copper and manganese, and has some folic acid.

Studies have shown quinoa to have anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties AND inhibit cholesterol absorption. It has been linked to reducing migraine headaches and much more! The list literally goes on and on with reason why you should be including this clear little round grain with the crunchy tail in your diet!

From a cooks standpoint, it’s very versatile and quick! Quinoa is ready in as little as 15 minutes! The lighter colored quinoa grains take on the color and flavor of whatever you are cooking it with. But the darker colors including black and red also take on the flavors you cook with. It’s an excellent substitute for rice or small pastas. It’s great served cold or warm. Sweet or savory.

Pictured above is just one of my favorite recipes using quinoa. I called it Fruited Quinoa. Make up a bunch and it will keep nicely in the refrigerator for a few days. This particular recipe is good at breakfast or as a unique dessert!

Fruited Quinoa
serves 1
1/3 cup rinsed quinoa
2/3 cups diet fruit juice (I used diet grape cranberry. I suppose you could use regular juice, but you would up the calorie count significantly.)
splash of lemon or lime juice
Chopped fresh fruit of your choice (I chose strawberries and kiwi)

Bring the quinoa and the juice to a boil. Reduce heat and cover. Cook for 15 minutes. Remove from heat. If you are chilling it first, cover and put in refrigerator and toss with fresh fruit when it’s chilled. If you are serving warm, toss with fresh fruit and serve immediately.