SICILIAN-STYLE TOASTED QUINOA

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Sicilian-Style Toasted Quinoa image

Originally grown in the high plains of the Andes Mountains in South America, quinoa (pronounced "keen-wa") was considered the "mother grain" that kept the Incan armies strong and robust. The grain was rediscovered and brought to the U.S. in the Eighties and test grown in Colorado. Today, quinoa is sold in many markets. Nutritionally charged Although no single food can supply all of life's essential nutrients, quinoa comes close. One of the more popular "supergrains," it is extraordinarily rich in nutrients, containing up to 50% more protein than most other grains. One of the best sources of vegetable protein in the vegetable kingdom, quinoa has a subtle, smoky flavor. It is a vegetarian source of calcium (26 mg per 1 cup serving), iron (4 mg per serving), and the B vitamins. Quinoa also contains high levels of lysine, an amino acid the body needs to make protein. A good rinse Quinoa is coated with a natural repellent, a bitter substance that protects the grain from insects and birds. To avoid a raw or bitter taste, place the grain in a fine strainer and rinse thoroughly with cold water. Drain. A tiny spiral__ During cooking, a fine, white spiral appears around the grain. Expect to see it, and enjoy. WholeHealthMD.com

Provided by Rita1652

Categories     Chard

Time 50m

Yield 6-8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

1/3 cup sun-dried tomato (not oil-packed)
1 cup boiling water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups shredded swiss chard (1 pound)
3/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup salted dry roasted sunflower seeds
1/3 cup golden raisin
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • In a small bowl, combine sun-dried tomatoes and boiling water.
  • Let stand until softened, about 20 minutes.
  • (Timing may vary depending upon dryness of tomatoes.) When softened, thinly slice.
  • In large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
  • Add onion and garlic, and cook, stirring frequently, 5 minutes or until onion is lightly browned.
  • Add Swiss chard, sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and cook, stirring frequently, 5 to 7 minutes or until chard is tender.
  • Meanwhile, in large nonstick skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat.
  • Add drained quinoa and cook, stirring constantly, 5 minutes or until lightly golden.
  • Add 4 cups water, pepper, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook 12 to 15 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
  • Transfer mixture to large bowl.
  • Stir in sunflower seeds, raisins, Parmesan, Swiss chard mixture, and sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Toss with a fork to combine.

Rajan Rai
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This recipe was easy to follow and turned out great! I would definitely recommend it to others.


Jinam Modasiya
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This was a great recipe! The quinoa was cooked perfectly, and the flavors were amazing. I will definitely be making this again.


Sanoj Sha
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I love this recipe because it's so versatile. I've made it with different vegetables, and it's always delicious.


Malik Hamad
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This recipe is easy to make and can be tailored to your own preferences. I added some extra spices and a bit of lemon zest, and it turned out great!


Shaun Longstreet
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I made this recipe with some roasted vegetables, and it was delicious! The quinoa was perfectly cooked, and the vegetables added a nice crunch.


Qamar Hussain
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This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables. It's also a good source of protein and fiber.


Mohammed Kuddus
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I love the combination of flavors in this dish. The quinoa is nutty, the vegetables are sweet and savory, and the herbs add a nice freshness.


Francine Ingabire
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This recipe is a great way to use up leftover quinoa. It's also a great option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.


Gautam Ray
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I've been looking for a healthy and tasty quinoa recipe, and this one fits the bill perfectly. It's now a regular in my meal rotation.


Tracy Metcalf
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I made this recipe for a potluck, and it was a big hit! Everyone loved the unique flavors.


Leena SEM
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This was my first time making quinoa, and it was a success! The recipe was easy to follow, and the quinoa turned out fluffy and flavorful.


Hundaol Tesfaye
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I love this recipe! It's so easy to make and always turns out delicious. I've made it for my friends and family, and they all loved it too.


Naeem Ahmmad
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This quinoa dish was a hit with my family! The flavors were amazing, and the quinoa was cooked perfectly. I'll definitely be making this again.