Delicious & Healthy Quinoa Five Ways

Much like kale or chia seeds, quinoa has become something of a health food superstar in recent years. This seed is native to South America (specifically Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Bolivia) and is highly acclaimed for its nutritional properties. It contains essential amino acids as well as considerable amounts of calcium, phosphorous, and iron. These teeny tiny seeds are also a full ‘o fiber and gluten-free. Do we need to convince you of their nutritional worth any more? We think not. So, let’s get to it: here are five stellar recipes that incorporate the non-grain in different ways. Get cookin’ with quinoa (at breakfast, lunch, AND dinner), now!

SEE ALSO Daily Bite Wellness Tip: Replace Your Usual Grains With Quinoa

Beet, Blood Orange, Kumquat, and Quinoa Salad via Cooking Light

We can’t get over how refreshing this light summer salad looks. Chock full of healthy sweet and savory flavors (think blood oranges and green onions together), this colorful dish serves as the perfect light accompaniment to any main dish.

Breakfast Hash Browns via A Beautiful Mess

Talk about a healthy update. Sneak quinoa into your average breakfast hash browns to up their nutritional content. The miniature superfood will add texture and flavor that will make you forget about those greasy diner taters in no time.

SEE ALSO Grain to Know: Wheat Berries

Black Bean Quinoa Burgers via Vegetarian Times

Sick of mediocre frozen veggie burgers? We are too. That’s why we are raising our meatless burger standards with recipes like this one. Say hello to black bean quinoa burgers! These patties are rich with veggie flavor. Pair with sweet potato wedges and you’ve got the “traditional” American meal with much more nutrition and less empty calories.

Pumpkin, Zucchini, Quinoa Muffins via The Healthy Foodie

These mighty muffins prove just how versatile quinoa can be. Pair the seed with pumpkin and zucchini for a veggie-packed breakfast option that will satisfy your morning pastry needs! Whip up a batch and you might never go back to the standard deli muffin again.

Quinoa, Fennel, and Pomegranate Salad via Bon Apetit

Do we even need to explain why this recipe is to-die-for? The photograph above is the kind of  picture that is worth a thousand words. Here are three that come to mind, though: vibrant, textured, fresh. Enough said. The recipe for this unbelievably flavorful side dish is simply perfect for dinner.

For more Food inspiration, check out our features here.

What’s your favorite way to eat quinoa?