Quinoa---and Amaranth---are actually grasses. A staple in South America, Quinoa is an excellent complete protein and cooks in just 15 minutes. Just avoid stirring it---it becomes too mushy. Substitute Quinoa for chicken or beef in any recipe, or try as a salad, with dressing, or swing the other way, and sprinkle on brown sugar, syrup, whipping cream, jam, or honey.

I like this pure and simple recipe. Great as a side dish, to introduce your family to this awesome grain.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons chopped garlic
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 dash fresh lemon juice (optional)

Directions

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the quinoa, and toast, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, or until quinoa is tender.
2. In a bowl, toss quinoa together with garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and onion. Sprinkle with lemon juice, and serve.