Quinoa with Pork and Chives

This dish was born out of an attempt to finish off some grilled pork tenderloin. We discovered Quinoa while looking for alternatives to rice due to our son Jack being allergic to both rice and soy.

If you have never had Quinoa ('keen-wah') before- give it a try! It is very similar to couscous. Here are some quick facts on the grain that is rapidly growing in popularity:

• Protein in Quinoa:

One of the best reasons to enjoy quinoa is because it has a high-protein content, which makes it a great cholesterol-free and low-fatsource of protein for vegetarians and vegans. According to the USDA nutrient database, 1 cup of cooked quinoa (185 g) contains 8.14 grams of protein. To put that in reference, the recommended daily protein intake is about 56 grams for most men and 46 for most women.

• Fat in Quinoa:

Quinoa is naturally low in fat, but as a seed, it does have a small amount. One cup of cooked quinoa provides 3.4 grams of fat. But be mindful of what you add to your dish! Extra calories and fat can sneak in that way.

• Calories in Quinoa:

  Quinoa is relatively low in calories. One cup of cooked quinoa provides 222 calories. Again, watch what you add to the quinoa, as it's in the cooking process that most of the calories and fat will be added,depending on how you prepare it.

• Other Nutrients in Quinoa:

Quinoa is a great source of iron and fiber for vegetarians and omnivores alike. One cup of cooked quinoa (185 grams) provides 15% of the recommended daily intake of iron, and 5 grams of fiber, which is 21% the recommended amount. Quinoa is also an excellent source of magnesium, with 118 mg per cup, cooked. According to the USDA nutrient database, one cup of cooked quinoa provides:

39.41 mg carbohydrates

31 mg calcium

2.76 mg iron

318 mg potassium

13 mg sodium

2.02 mg zinc

So, now that your interests have been sparked just a little... lets tackle other questions.

• Where can I find this whole grain?

Most grocery stores have an organic section and that is a good place to start. You used to have to find Quinoa at a specialized market but gluten-free diets have become very mainstream now- you can even find Quinoa along side couscous and rice at your every day grocery store! My favorite brand is Bob's Red Mill

• What do I do with it?

All sorts of things!! cold salads, warm dishes, sides or a main dish! I find Quinoa to have a bland taste so be sure to flavor it up! Pretty punch anything you do with couscous, you can do with Quinoa. I have even seen recipes for rice pudding type dishes!

• Will Kids eat it?

I am not going to lie- this grain was a tough sell at first. But I have tailored it to my family's tastes and it is a widely accepted dish now! It has served as a great rice replacement for us and as a gluten free option for countless others.

I made the Quinoa with chicken broth instead of water and a pinch of salt, added the pork tenderloin and some leftover broccoli. The only seasoning I added was a little vinegar (apple cider) to help cut the saltiness. Delish! 100% weight loss friendly, filling, satisfying and QUICK! I used up the leftovers no one was interested and was healthful in the process