Sunday, September 18, 2011

Quinoa with Orange, Spinach & Peppers

quinoa with orange, spinach and peppersQuinoa is something we started adding to our dinner options last year as some of our family is on a gluten-free diet. In addition to being gluten free, Quinoa comes with a lot of other benefits making it a great vegetarian option for everyone in the family. It is a complete protein as well as a good source of dietary fibre, iron, magnesium and phosphorus.

I developed this recipe as a staple that is packed with flavour.. You can eat it as is or add any vegetable or protein you have on hand. It's a great alternative to rice or pasta and the kids love it.

The Ingredients: Quinoa with Orange, Spinach & Peppers
Makes 5 - 6 servings (as a side dish)

1 onion
3 cloves of garlic
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground pepper
1 1/2 cups Quinoa
3 cups chicken or vegetable stock
1/4 cup orange juice
1 diced red pepper
2 cups fresh spinach
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (can substitute 1 tbsp dried parsley)
pinch cayenne pepper
1 tbsp paprika

Saute onions, red pepper, garlic & salt in olive oil for 5 minutes on medium heat. Add paprika, cayenne & Quinoa. Stir for 30 seconds before stirring in the orange juice. Add the stock, peppers and parsley. Let simmer with lid off for approx 15 minutes. You should see the Quinoa shell split open a bit when done. Stir some spinach in at a few seconds before plating to avoid the spinach from getting too soggy.

Enjoy!

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