Quinoa Pilaf

If you are not familiar with Quinoa (click here for information), it is worth your time to investigate.  Very low on the glycemic index (35), and very high in protein, 6 gm per 1/2 cup.  Quinoa can be red, white or black in color.   Most grocery stores carry it now in the same area as rice.  It can also be ordered online.  If you purchase Quinoa that has not been pre-rinsed, you must rinse it first as it has a natural bitter coating.  I will be experimenting with quinoa frequently.  It is a very healthy option for the diabetic diet and can be used in breads, as cereal, and instead of meat protein.  As with any new foods that you try, be sure to test to see how quinoa effects your blood glucose level.  Below is dry uncooked quinoa, called a grain but it is actually a seed, from a plant which grows in Peru (among other South American countries).

Cook Quinoa as directed on box- 1 Cup Quinoa to 2 cups of water, bring to boil then turn heat down and simmer 10-15 minutes.  You will see a transformation of the quinoa as it cooks.  This is what it looks
like after it is prepared.

Gently sauté mushrooms, yellow pepper and red pepper in 2 tsp. olive oil

Toss the sautéed vegetables into the quinoa.   Grate peel of one lemon into the mixture and add salt and pepper to taste.

Serve with grilled fish or chicken.

**Refrigerate the leftovers and serve cold on a bed of lettuce the next day, drizzle one teaspoon olive oil and 1 teaspoon lemon juice for dressing.  It is as good cold as it is warm.

Enjoy in good health!