Sweet ways to use quinoa

I have been on a quinoa kick lately, and am experimenting with new ways to incorporate it into recipes. This little grain (which is actually a seed!) has a long list of nutrients, and health benefits as well as adding protein to whatever you are making. Have a pre-cooked batch all ready to go in the fridge to throw into whatever you are making. It keeps for 3-4 days in a sealed container.

I use it in place of rice with curries and stir-fry dishes, throw it in soups and stews, muffins, banana breads, and love it as a hot cereal in the morning.



Quinoa hot cereal

Quinoa Hot Cereal

Simply add cooked quinoa, chia seed, hemp seed, chopped nuts, and any non-dairy milk to a small pot. A dash of cinnamon, and nutmeg, a little vanilla, stevia or coconut palm sugar and heat. Add more milk after if you like. It is really delicious, and provides clean energy for the whole morning. 















Energy Protein Bars

Energy Bars

1/2 c.  dates (pitted and chopped)
1/2 c. pecans (or sub other nut)
1/2 c. cooked quinoa
2 Tb chia seed
2 Tb. hemp seed
1/2 c. nut butter
1 scoop protein powder
1/2 c. coconut
1/2. canned light coconut milk
1/4 c. agave nectar (or honey)
(optional) 1 scoop if good quality vegan protein powder mixed in with with the food processor ingredients.

Melted dark chocolate for top.

Combine dates, nuts, quinoa, chia and hemp seed and protein powder in food processor, and pulse until meal forms. Transfer to a med, bowl, and add coconut to this mixture

In small bowl combine nut butter, coconut milk, and agave nectar and whisk together.

Combine wet ingredients with meal and mix until dough forms.

Bake @ 350 F in a parchment paper lined baking pan, for 30-35 minutes.

Allow to cool completely and spread melted chocolate over the top, and place in fridge until it sets. Cut into bars and store in airtight container.


Both of these recipes are really delicious and nutritious. Enjoy!


~Leanne
Holistic Counsellor
www.soulworkcounselling.com