Peg Harvey-Sweeney

Not only is quinoa a nutritional powerhouse, but it has a delightful nutty flavor that is delicious on its own, or with mild seasoning and simple vegetables, such as this recipe. Be sure to wash your quinoa well, as its natural saponin coating is quite bitter, and is not always fully removed during processing.

Food as Medicine: Quinoa is high in protein, and the protein it contains is complete, which means it includes all nine essential amino acids.

• 1 eggplant
• 1 red pepper
• 1 zucchini
• ½ package mushrooms
• 1 C. quinoa
• 2-4 T. Trader Joe’s eggplant hummus

Rinse and drain the quinoa, then add 2 C. water or broth (add 1 t. miso if using water). Bring to a boil, then turn down and simmer for 15 minutes on low. Turn off and let sit, then fluff with a fork.

Thinly slice the veggies and brush with olive oil, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Grill on a Foreman grill, gas grill, or broiler until cooked. Cut up into chunks.

Serve in a bowl with quinoa, a dollop of hummus, and veggies on the top.