Spiced quinoa with almonds and feta
Spiced Quinoa with Almonds and Feta is a delicious gluten-free salad that offers a delicious twist by using quinoa instead of couscous. This recipe is perfect for anyone who prefers a lighter alternative without compromising on taste. The combination of aromatic spices, crunchy almonds and creamy feta cheese creates a tantalizing sensory experience that leaves you wanting more. With its nutritional value and exquisite taste, this salad is a fantastic choice for a healthy and filling meal. Prepare for a culinary journey tailored to your dietary needs while indulging in a symphony of flavors!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 300g quinoa, rinsed
- 50 g roasted almond flakes
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled
- a handful of parsley, coarsely chopped
- Juice ½ lemon
Tip
Quinoa
Quinoa (pronounced keen-wa), a small South American grain with a delicate, nutty flavor, looks a little like couscous.
Preparation steps
- Heat the oil in a large pan.
- Add the spices and then sauté until fragrant, about a minute.
- Add the quinoa and then fry for another minute until you hear a slight pop.
- Stir in 600 ml boiling water.
- Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until the water has evaporated and the quinoa grains have a white “halo” around them.
- Allow to cool slightly.
- Stir in the other ingredients.
- Serve warm or cold.
Nutritional Information
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbohydrates | Sugar | fiber | protein | Salt |
| 404 | 19g | 4g | 44g | 6g | 1g | 17g | 0.68g |
Equipment and tools
To prepare this recipe you will need the following equipment and tools:
- Big pot
- frying pan
- Lint fork or spoon
- Knife
- cutting board
- Serving bowls
Allergen information
This recipe contains the following allergens:
- Almonds
- Feta cheese
Storage and leftovers
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave until warmed through. Alternatively, you can enjoy the leftovers cold as a refreshing salad.
Health Benefits of Spiced Quinoa with Almonds and Feta
Quinoa:
Quinoa, also known as Keen-Wa, is a gluten-free grain that offers numerous health benefits. Known for its high protein content, it is considered a complete protein that contains all nine essential amino acids that our body needs. This makes it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans who may struggle to meet their protein needs.
In addition to being a great source of protein, quinoa is also high in fiber. Fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. It can also help control weight by making you feel fuller for longer and reducing overall calorie intake.
In addition, quinoa is a good source of minerals such as magnesium, manganese and phosphorus. These minerals play an important role in maintaining bone health, regulating blood pressure, and supporting energy production in the body.
Almonds:
Almonds are not only delicious but also very nutritious. They are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which have been shown to improve heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels. These fats are also a good source of energy.
In addition to healthy fats, almonds also contain many important nutrients such as vitamin E, magnesium and calcium. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Magnesium is important for muscle and nerve function, while calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Almonds are also a great source of plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for people on a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Feta cheese:
Feta cheese is only a small ingredient in this recipe, but it adds flavor and some health benefits. Feta cheese is made from sheep’s milk or a combination of sheep and goat’s milk and is lower in fat and calories compared to some other dairy products.
Although feta cheese is high in sodium, it can still be enjoyed in moderation. It provides a good amount of protein, calcium and phosphorus. Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, while phosphorus is involved in energy production and cell repair.
Parsley:
Parsley is not only a side dish, but also a source of nutrients. It is a good source of vitamins A, C and K as well as folic acid and iron. Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties, while vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Iron is important for transporting oxygen in the body and preventing iron deficiency anemia. Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is crucial for healthy cell growth and development and is therefore particularly important for pregnant women.
Lemon juice:
Adding a squeeze of lemon juice to this recipe not only gives this recipe a tangy flavor but also provides additional health benefits. Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system, promotes skin health and supports collagen production.
In addition, lemon juice has been found to promote digestion and help cleanse the liver by promoting the production of bile. It also acts as a natural diuretic, supports kidney health and reduces bloating.
In summary, this Spiced Quinoa with Almonds and Feta recipe offers a wealth of health benefits. From the protein-rich quinoa and nutrient-dense almonds to the calcium-rich feta cheese and vitamin-rich parsley and lemon juice, each ingredient contributes to a nutritious and flavorful dish.
