If I could have it my way, I would eat nothing but rice, pasta, and noodles for every meal, every day. But let’s face it, my body has changed since I entered my 30s and it does not accept carbs the way it used to. So my philosophy nowadays is to eat healthy, carb-less dinners (packed with flavor, of course) during the week so that I can eat all the carbs my heart desires on the weekends!

Nonetheless, there are weeknights where I get a little weak and give in to carbs. (Don’t judge, I’m only human.) For those “exceptions,” I try to at least eat healthy carbs.  That’s why quinoa, pronounced “kee-nwa,” is my new best friend! While people often mistake quinoa for a whole grain, it is actually a seed; however, it can be prepared like most whole grains. Not only does quinoa taste delicious, it’s super healthy for you as well!  This seed is packed with protein and amino acids, which means you stay full longer! It’s also gluten and cholesterol free.

I whipped this recipe together for dinner one night using ingredients I already had in my pantry. I always have raisins on hand to mix with different nuts as a healthy snack. I know, I know. Pine nuts are super expensive. BUT a small bag does last a while because you only need a little for most recipes.

Recipe
Yield: 2 servings

INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup quinoa
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
3 tbsp. golden raisins
2 tbsp. pine nuts
2 tbsp. chopped parsley
1/2 tbsp. lemon juice
kosher salt
freshly ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS:
1. Place the quinoa and chicken broth in a saucepan over high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and let sit, covered, for another 3-5 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, toast the pine nuts in a small skillet over medium heat, stirring, until golden. This should take 3-5 minutes. Don’t leave the pine nuts unattended because they can burn easily!
3. Fluff the quinoa with a fork. Add the pine nuts, raisins, parsley, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper and toss.
4. Serve hot or at room temperature.