You Are What You Eat: Quinoa for protein and minerals

Each week, we'll be offering original recipes and unique ways to use those Super Foods that pack nutritional power. After all, you are what you eat -- make it count!

Quinoa is probably not on the shelf in your pantry next to the rice or pasta. It just may join those staples once you find out how delicious and nutritious it is.

Not actually a grain, but a seed, quinoa is rich in complete protein (not usual for grains) and minerals. Since quinoa is so high in magnesium, it may help migraine sufferers and improve cardiovascular health. High in fiber and lignans, quinoa is a well-rounded heart health food.

OK, but what can you do with quinoa? Well, just by cooking it according to package directions, you end up with a simple side dish. But here are some of my family's favorite things to do with quinoa:

• Replace bulgur wheat with quinoa in tabouleh. Need a basic tabouleh recipe?
• Stir in dried cranberries, sliced almonds and baby spinach (it will wilt to perfection if you stir it in when quinoa is hot) and dress with a raspberry vinaigrette.
• Add roasted veggies, like red pepper, zucchini, broccoli and onion, to cooked quinoa and dress with a balsamic vinaigrette.
• To cooked quinoa, add assorted dried fruits and seed, a titch of maple syrup and some almond milk and you've got a wonderful hot cereal.

Feeling ambitious? Are you on your way to the store to buy quinoa yet? Here are some more recipes to start you on the road to quinoa-lover:

• Curried Quinoa -- Curry powder has its own super health benefits, so this dish is a true powerhouse.
• Quinoa Casserole -- with broccoli, tomato and shoyu
• Mediterranean Quinoa -- with kalamata olives, parsley and peppers
• Quinoa Black Bean Salad -- that Tex-Mex flair is acheived with cumin, coriander, lime juice and chiles

From flavor, protein, minerals and versatility, quinoa is an up-and-coming staple to pantries across America.

Do you have a favorite way to use quinoa?