Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Creamy Quinoa Primavera

Have you tried quinoa? It seems to be the newest wonder food that's popping up in recipes everywhere. Quinoa is a grain that is unique because it is also a complete protein (like meat). The name is pronounced KEEN-wah and it tastes like a mixture between oatmeal and brown rice.


Creamy Quinoa Primavera

1 1/2 cups uncooked quinoa
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
5 cups finely chopped assorted fresh vegetables
1 Tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic
4 oz cream cheese
2 tsp dried basil

Rinse quinoa in warm water. Combine quinoa and broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat slightly, keep covered, and allow to cook until all broth is absorbed--about 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, wash and chop vegetables. Anything will work. I used zucchini, sweet onion, red bell pepper, orange bell pepper, and broccoli.

Heat olive oil in a medium skillet. Add garlic and vegetables. Cook until vegetables are crisp-tender.

Once all the broth has been absorbed by the quinoa, add cream cheese and basil. Continue stirring and cooking until cream cheese is well-distributed. Add vegetables. Stir to combine. Top with Parmesean cheese if desired. Serve.

1 comments:

Kelli said...

I can't wait to try this recipe! I love quinoa and am always looking for good ways to prepare it. Thanks!