If you have been interested in learning how to cook quinoa (pronouned keen' wa), this is a great recipe to try.

Although it is not really a grain, it is cooked like one and tastes like one. It is a seed and is part of the same food family as the vegetable spinach.

I think you will really love this recipe, with its mix of a healthy grain, lightly stir fried vegetables and a bit of light seasoning.

Give it a try.

Prep time: 5 minutes, plus soaking Cook time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa (250 ml)
1 cup boiling water (250 ml)
1/4 cup tomatoes, diced (50 ml)
1/4 cup carrot, cut into strips (50 ml)
1/4 cup broccoli, chopped (50 ml)
1/4 cup cauliflower florets (50 ml)
1/4 cup zucchini, diced or cut into strips (50 ml)
2 tablespoons sunflower oil (30 ml)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (15 ml)
2 tablespoons goat cheese, crumbled (optional) (30 ml)

Directions:
Rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. Although this "grain" can be cooked immediately it is best to soak it for at least an hour and up to 8 hours before cooking.

In a medium saucepan boil the water then add the quinoa to the boiling water. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes or until tender.

In a skillet on medium high heat, stir fry the carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and zucchini in oil for about 4 minutes. Add in the tomatoes and heat through. Stir the vegetables into the quinoa and add the soy sauce. Stir together and serve immediately. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese on top if desired.

Serves 6.