Post by Azmina Govindji @AzminaNutrition

NUTRITIONAL NUGGET – Q is for Quinoa

This whole grain is gaining popularity as a healthy carb, but what’s so great about it? For a start, it’s a good source of essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein, as well as magnesium and zinc. An average serving size of about 180g will give you just over 200kcal and around 5g of fibre. It also delivers some iron and folate and what’s more, it’s gluten free.

Check out these 3 ways to enjoy quinoa:

1. Boil it. The easiest way to cook it is simply to plunge it into boiling water and simmer for about 15 minutes. Use one-part quinoa to two parts water.

2. Spice it up. Cook quinoa as above, then try this recipe for a spicy alternative (use quinoa in the same way as the bulgur wheat).

3. A filling salad. Boil the quinoa as above, add canned sweetcorn, chopped red peppers and sliced spring onions. Drizzle on some fresh lime juice and olive oil. For a quick and easy lunch or dinner option, serve with pan-fried salmon, griddled chicken or grilled halloumi.