It’s not Rice. It’s not pasta. It’s Quinoa – the super seed. Packed full of protein, fibre, iron and calcium, you won’t have to feel guilty having seconds. A delicious alternative to rice or pasta, it can be worked into just about any recipe. Be sure to sample Elmwood Spa’s Chef Billy Benson’s creation, Vegan Quinoa Risotto next time you enjoy lunch with us in your spa robes at the Terrace Restaurant.

VEGAN QUINOA RISOTTO (Gluten Free)
Ancient Grain Risotto with Mixed Peppers, Zucchini,
Grilled Eggplant, Scallions & Avocado
Add Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Breast for $4.00
See full Terrace Menu

So what exactly is it and why is it so good for you?

Cultivated in regions of South America for over 5,000 years, Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) may resemble a grain, but it’s actually a seed. Not only is it healthy, it’s easy to prepare. Quinoa is sold pre-rinsed and takes only 15 minutes to cook (compared to the the 45 minutes to cook brown rice) – perfect for any weeknight dinner. The seeds are prepared similarly to rice and come out fluffy with a slight crunch and a delicious nutty flavour. Try it as a replacement for rice or pasta, or even in soups and salads.

Healthy Bone Growth

Quinoa is high in protein, which promotes healthy bone growth by increasing the body’s absorption of Calcium. It also contains all nine essential amino acids encouraging the body’s development of muscle tissue and metabolic enzymes.

Migraine Relief

Quinoa is high in riboflavin (part of the B-vitamin family), which has been shown in recent studies to help relieve and prevent migraine headaches by improving the transport of oxygen to the cells.

Cardiovascular Health

Quinoa is high in magnesium which helps to reduce blood pressure and promotes cardiovascular health. The consumption of whole grain products containing fiber has been shown to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks. Fibre rich foods also make you feel full and satisfied for longer.

Sources:
Quinoa, WHFoods.org.
http://nas/content/live/elmwoods.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=142

Quinoa, WHFoods.org.
http://nas/content/live/elmwoods.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=142