The Benefits of Super Grains

Quinoa is a fantastic, flavorful grain that I have tried to get my children to eat. The Incas, who held the crop to be sacred,referred to quinoa as chisaya mama, or “mother of all grains.”

Quinoa was of great nutritional importance, second only to the potato, and was followed in importance by maize. In contemporary times, this crop has become highly appreciated for its nutritional value, as its protein content is very high. Nutritional evaluations of quinoa indicate that it is a source of complete protein. Furthermore, it is a good source of dietary fiber and is high in magnesium and iron. Quinoa is also a source of calcium, and thus is useful for vegans. Besides that, it’s gluten-free and considered easy to digest.

One day I was in Whole Foods shopping for my clients and made the most amazing discovery: quinoa pasta! Before I transformed my home into a wheat-only home, I had a huge war with my children, simply because everything looked different. The bread and the pasta weren’t the same, and they knew it. When I saw the quinoa pasta, I was ecstatic! It looks white and they have no clue as to the taste difference.

So for my three fussy kids, I dedicate this recipe to you!

Spaghetti and Marinara With Soy Meatballs

1/2 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 14-oz. cans diced tomatoes
1/3 cup water
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. dried basil
1 Tbsp. tomato paste
1 tsp. fresh lemon juice
Soy ground beef (I love the Morningstar brand)

Prepared quinoa spaghetti (Just follow the package directions)

• In a medium saucepan, sauté the onions and garlic in the olive oil over medium heat until the onions are translucent.
• Add the tomatoes, water, salt, pepper, sugar, and basil. Bring to a simmer, then pour into a food processor or blender. Pulse 4 to 5 times, being sure to leave small chunks of tomato (or puree completely; that’s how my children like it). Pour back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat.
• Add the tomato paste, lemon juice, and soy ground beef, and simmer on low heat for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring continuously. Adjust the seasonings if necessary.
• Serve over prepared quinoa spaghetti.

Until next time…Samantha Bann

www.vegasvalleycatering.com