Introducing Quinoa to A Family Favorite

I added a new twist to one of our family favorites recently, and since it was such a big hit at our house, I had to share it with you!

 Up until now, I've always just served my Crock Pot Garlic Rosemary Chicken with rolls and a salad.  It's scrumptious and homey and filling that way, but it's always nice to shake things up, right?  Especially with a healthier alternative!

Enter quinoa.

Have you heard of it?  It's all the rage in the health world right now (read up on it here!) and is high in great things like magnesium and fiber.  I didn't even know this until I read about it on the website I shared above, but apparently, since it's so high in magnesium, it's a great thing for people who suffer from migraines.  I was so excited to read that!  This is definitely going to be a bigger part of my diet.  Also, since it's high in protein--complete protein--it's a great alternative for vegetarians who are searching for a good source of protein to replace meat.

Don't let the daunting spelling (it's pronounced "keen-wah," by the way) prevent you from trying this stuff out.  I love it!

And it's such a simple substitute for many of the things we eat.  Want to know how I incorporated it in my meal last night?

I rinsed it just as directed, and then, instead of simmering it in just plain water, I siphoned out some of the broth from the garlic rosemary chicken that was cooking away in the crock pot.  I cooked the quinoa in 1 part broth and 2 parts water.  I love the way that it flavors the quinoa.  Think about all of the flavors you could add to it--the possibilities are endless!

It's probably a little dorky how excited I am about this stuff.  That's ok :)

We've been including quinoa in many of our meals for the past month.  It's so filling that it helps us maintain healthier portions, and it keeps us full for a long time.  It's definitely a new favorite around here!

Have you tried quinoa before?  What meals have you made with it?  I'm all for more inspiration :)  Share with us!