Tired of rice? Why not try quinoa? This seed is a true gem in the nutritional department and makes a great replacement for most recipes that call for rice. What makes it so amazing? Besides being one of the few plant sources that is considered a complete protein (a real plus for Vegetarians!), it’s loaded with fiber, iron and magnesium. Another reason to love it? It’s easy to prepare and only takes about 15-20 minutes to cook. Need some recipe inspiration? The recipe below is simple and versatile. It’s delicious as a side dish for any Mexican meal or can be used as a filler for tacos or burritos or even as a topping for a taco salad. Looking to get more mileage out of this recipe? Amp up the flavor by adding more cilantro along with some chopped green onions. Want a spicier version? Try dicing up a jalapeno and cook it along with the cumin. Need a more satisfying dish? Stir in black beans, grape tomatoes and corn to make a hearty salad…really the options are endless!
Quinoa with Cumin and Lime
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 2 cups water
- 1 lime, juice and zest
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Set a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the quinoa and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add cumin and continue to stir, cooking an additional minute. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until quinoa is cooked, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain any excess water. Add the lime juice and zest, cilantro, salt and pepper and toss until well combined.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 96
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 23
- Fat: 3
- Saturated Fat: 0
- Unsaturated Fat: 2
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 0
