Tag Archives: 2013

This year’s food of choice is (drum roll, please!) … QUINOA!

United Nations name 2013 International Year of Quinoa.

The first time that I ever heard of quinoa was almost four years ago. A friend of mine, who was testing out the paleo diet at the time, was cooking some up one day when I happened upon the package sitting on the kitchen counter.

“What is this ‘quinn-OH-a’ that you’re eating?” I asked. To which he replied (with a visible shake of his head), “It’s pronounced ‘keen-wah’. And it’s really quite good for you.” He went on to explain the many health benefits that quinoa provides. However, feeling foolish at my pronounciation faux-pas, I avoided this “keen-wah” for a substantial amount of time before giving it a try myself. (I can be quite stubborn…) Eventually, however, I tried it, loved it, and currently consider it a stample in my diet. Which is why I’m delighted to hear the 2013 has been declared Year of Quinoa! For once, it would seem that I’m ahead of the curb 😉

If you haven’t already, I highly recommend giving it a try. You can start slow, and sprinkle a little bit it on top of a leafy salad or jump right in and make one of my favourites, quinoa Greek salad (Greek salad with a quinoa base!). It also makes a great side dish or rice substitute.