Quinoa with Broccoli and Cheese

Quinoa is a grain that has been cultivated in the Andean mountain areas of South America for over five thousand years; referred to as 'mother of all grains'. Quinoa supplies one of the most nutritious forms of complex carbs in the world, which are necessary for building muscle and a toned body. (I wish!)  Quinoa is a great source of complete plant protein that contains all essential amino acids the body requires as the building blocks for muscle. Compared to other grains, such as wheat, quinoa is higher in minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron, and the antioxidant minerals copper and manganese. Quinoa is rich in fiber  which helps elimination of toxins and keeps your digestive tract cleansed. And quinoa is gluten free! As with all grains be sure to eat a green salad beforehand.
reference from The Beauty Detox Foods by Kimberly Snyder, C.N.

Recipe
adapted from closetcooking.com

Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa
1 1/2 cups of vegetable broth
2 cups broccoli, chopped
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded ( I prefer raw unpasteurized goat cheese)
Pinch of salt (optional)
Pepper to taste

Directions:
Bring the quinoa and broth to a boil over medium heat, reduce the heat and simmer covered for 15 minutes. Add chopped broccoli push the broccoli down into the quinoa with a fork. Cook for another 5 minutes. Mix in the cheese, let it melt and season with salt and pepper.

















So good!