Sweet Breakfast Quinoa

Quinoa is naturally loaded with protein and fiber making it a perfect nutritious start to a productive day. It has a light fluffy texture and slight nutty flavor.  It is also gluten-free.

I have to admit I never tried quinoa before and am happy I did since it opens up a lot of possibilities.

*Ingredients:

1 c. red quinoa, rinsed

2 c. water

1 Tbsp. oil (I used walnut)

1/4 cup slivered almonds

1/2 c. dried apricots, cut into bite-size pieces

1/4 c. golden raisins

2 Tbsp pure maple syrup

1/2 tsp. finely grated orange zest

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/4 c. quark (a ricotta substitute)

1. In a small saucepan, cover the quinoa with water and bring to a boil. Cover and cook over low heat until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender, 15-20 minutes. Lightly fluff with a fork and cover it again.

2. In a medium skillet heat oil and add almonds. Cook over medium stirring a few times, until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Add apricots, raisins, maple syrup, orange zest and cinnamon and stir until heated through.

3. Add quinoa to the skillet and stir gently to mix. Top each portion with a dollop of quark.

Serves 4

*all ingredients except maple syrup are available at the Green Barn