Quinoa is a nutritious seed/whole grain that is high in protein and fiber, making it the perfect choice for a healthy meal. This tricolor quinoa recipe is simple to follow and will leave you with a flavorful and healthy side dish. The garlic gives the recipe a boost of flavor, making it irresistible!
Tricolor Quinoa Recipe Ingredients & Mental Health Benefits
Tricolor quinoa
Although it acts like a whole grain, quinoa is actually a seed. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies require for various functions.
Quinoa is a powerhouse of nutrients, including antioxidants, B vitamins, and iron. All of these nutrients work together to support your mental health and well-being.
- Antioxidants protect your cells from damage caused by oxidative stress, which can lead to inflammation and mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
- B vitamins are essential for a healthy nervous system, and they also play a role in cognitive function and mood regulation.
- Iron is an important nutrient for maintaining mental health. It helps the body produce energy and supports cognitive function. Low levels of iron can lead to fatigue, irritability, and depression. Getting enough iron in the diet is essential for maintaining mental health and preventing these problems.
Extra-virgin olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil is beneficial for mental health and overall health. It is a monounsaturated fatty acid that is a central part of the Mediterranean diet pattern.
Additionally, extra virgin olive oil is high in antioxidants which can help to protect the brain from damage and the body from inflammation.
How to Cook Tricolored Quinoa
Combine the vegetable broth, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in the quinoa, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat and let stand (covered) for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve.
Garlic Tricolor Quinoa Tips & FAQ
Tricolor quinoa has a rainbow of different types and colors of quinoa – red, black, and white. This makes it a fun and pretty addition to any dish.
Some people believe that tricolor quinoa is healthier than white quinoa, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Tricolor quinoa does have more antioxidants than white quinoa, but the difference is not significant. Both types of quinoa are healthy and nutritious options.
Tricolor quinoa has a slightly different flavor and texture than white quinoa. Tricolor quinoa is said to have a nuttier, earthier flavor than white quinoa.
White quinoa is more delicate and has a slightly sweet flavor, while tricolor quinoa is a bit heartier.
Red quinoa has a nutty flavor and a slightly crunchy texture, while white quinoa is milder in flavor and softer in texture. Black quinoa is the most flavorful of the three types with a slightly earthy taste.
So if you’re looking for something with more flavor, go for the tricolor quinoa. If you want something a little milder, stick to white quinoa.
Tricolor quinoa does not contain gluten, which is the protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. However, it is often processed in facilities that also process gluten-containing grains.
This means that there is a chance of cross-contamination. If you have Celiac disease or a severe gluten allergy, make sure your tricolor quinoa is certified gluten free.
Some foods are so beautiful, it’s hard to believe they’re actually good for you. Tricolor quinoa is one of those foods.
With its delicate tricolor spectrum of red, black, and white grains, it looks like something that should be served at a high-end restaurant rather than on your dinner plate. But appearances can be deceiving.
Tricolor quinoa is not only attractive but also good for your mental health, providing a good dose of protein and fiber in every serving. And it pairs perfectly with my recipes for Easy Air Fryer Sea Bass and Frozen Butternut Squash in the Air Fryer.
Give it a try today and let me know what you think in the comments!
Garlic Tricolor Quinoa Recipe (Vegan-Friendly)
Ingredients
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup tricolor quinoa
Instructions
- Combine the vegetable broth, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the quinoa, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let stand (covered) for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and serve.
Notes
- Garlic Tricolor Quinoa pairs perfectly with my recipes for Easy Air Fryer Sea Bass and Frozen Butternut Squash in the Air Fryer.