What is Quinoa?

Do you know what quinoa (keen-wah) is? I didn't either until I discovered the most wonderful Peruvian restaurant in Encinitas. The restaurant is Qero, and their food is some of the best you will find in San Diego. Quinoa is a staple on their menu, as it is in Peru. It grows mainly in the Andes, although some American farmers in Colorado are now growing it. The fact that it grows in extremely poor soil together with its great nutritional value makes it a true super grain to feed the world.

Quinoa is a 100% grain and is close to being a perfect food source in the balance of nutrition it provides. Technically it is not a grain, but the seed of a leafy plant related to spinach. The World Health Organization has rated the quality of protein in quinoa to be equivalent or superior to that found in milk products. So next time you see it on the menu, don't ask to substitute it for something else, give it a try. You'll be pleasantly surprised. It a nutty flavor that when mixed with other foods, is a delightful change. It can be served hot or cold, but here is a favorite cold salad of mine.

Greek Style Cold Quinoa Salad

FOR QUINOA: put 1 cup quinoa, rinsed into a saucepan with a dash of salt and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, lower to a simmer, and cook 18-20 minutes, until water is gone and quinoa is tender. (like rice)

FOR VINEGRETTE: 2 tsp grainy mustard, 4 T. olive oil, 4 tsp balsamic vinegar, 1tsp honey, salt and pepper to taste. Mix together in a small bowl.

ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS: 2 roma tomatoes, seeded and chopped, handful of flatleaf parsley, chopped, 1/3 c. pine nuts, lightly toasted, 1/3 c. fet cheese crumbled, salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together. Enjoy.