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9 Super Benefits of Quinoa

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9 Super benefits of quinoa

Quinoa has been termed as the superfood of the era. Unlike most grains, this super protein rich ingredient has all the nine essential amino acids including the lysine, thus being a boon to vegetarians. When we refer to as quinoa, it’s the seeds that are the edible part of the plant which we consume. These are gluten-free, thus can be included as a substitute to wheat for those suffering from gluten intolerance. It has many nutrients to its credit and so are its health benefits enormous too. Let’s study its nutrient profile in detail first.

Health Benefits of Quinoa

B vitamins, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, fiber and so on…. The list is enormous – more than a dozen of nutrients is what quinoa has to offer. Name a nutrient and quinoa is brimming with it. Consequently, the list of health benefits too are numerous. Let’s browse through them…..

1. Achieve Weight Loss : The high fiber count of quinoa is the prime nutrient which assist in weight loss. The fiber it possess is almost double than any other grain – 19.9 g per cup. This much fiber is enough to increase the feeling of fullness or give a feeling of satiety and consume fewer calories from junk foods. It’s high protein additionally aids to boost your metabolism and reduce appetite. A decent weight loss is achieved by eating quinoa on a regular basis, probably at least twice to thrice a week. 

2. Manage Diabetes : With a low glycemic index of 53, quinoa qualifies to be a part of a diabetic meal plan. A low glycemic index category food will not tend to raise the blood sugar levels rapidly, thus helping to manage diabetes. Also being naturally high in fiber, it gets slowly digested and so helps to handle sugar levels better. However, it’s also important to keep its carbs in mind. Hence it is advisable to not consume only quinoa. Pair it with other high protein foods or high fiber veggies. And if you have been suggested an absolutely low-carb diet, this isn’t a very good choice for you. 

3. Quinoa  Lowers Cholesterol & Heart Diseases : The soluble fibre in this grain gains the credit of reducing the total blood cholesterol and LDL (bad cholesterol) levels in our body. This means a reduced risk of atherosclerosis, clogged arteries and other heart diseases. Furthermore, quinoa has a considerable amount of oleic acid and alpha-linoleic acid (a type of omega-3 fatty acids) which is known to decrease inflammation and reduce the death due to strokes. 

4. Facilitate Bone Health : Milk is known to all to help build bones. But there are many lactose intolerant who can’t handle dairy, while there are others who don’t have a liking for milk. For them, quinoa is a boon to build strong bones. Harnessed with nutrients like protein, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, quinoa has been considered as the bone-building power grain. If you are 30+ and consider popping a calcium tablet daily, do consider this natural healthy grain too to enhance your bone building nutrient count. 

5. Quinoa  Keeps Gut Clean : Again it’s the fiber from quinoa which stimulates the process of digestion and helps in the better absorption of nutrients along with keeping you free of constipation. Besides fiber, it’s the B vitamins also which help to keep the digestive system running effectively. Vitamin B1 helps in the production of hydrochloric acid (stomach acid) to assist in digestion and vitamin B2 helps to secrete mucous in the membranes of the gut. Low levels of B vitamins can cause disruption in the digestion and lead to bloating. 

6. Contribute to Skin Health : The antioxidants like quercetin, vitamin E, kaempferol, saponins, zinc etc. contribute to fight the free radicals which are quite a few times responsible for early ageing as well as early onset of many chronic diseases. The protein, zinc and these antioxidants will help to give the necessary elasticity to the skin and provide smooth and radiant skin which you have always yearned for. 

7. Quinoa  Controls Blood Pressure : Quinoa has potassium and magnesium – the two key nutrients which help to lower high blood pressure. Accompanied by a low sodium count, it is indeed a fabulous addition to diet to keep hypertension at bay. 

8. Prevent & Treat Anaemia : A cup of quinoa fulfills 35% of iron requirement, good enough to build your iron reserves and prevent anaemia and overcome existing low iron levels if any. Iron is the key nutrient for supplying oxygen and other nutrients via blood to each and every organ, tissue and cell of our body. A deficiency of iron shows beginning signs of fatigue and tiredness. Avoid this and stay fresh and active with quinoa. 

9. Strengthens Hair Follicles : The protein content of quinoa helps to nourish the hair follicles from its root. Vitamin E and zinc in quinoa are 2 other key nutrients that nourish the scalp, prevent hair breakage and promote hair growth.

Nutritive Information for Quinoa:

½ cup of raw quinoa is about 100 grams

RDA stands for Recommended Daily Allowance.

Energy - 345 calories

Protein – 13.2 g

Carbohydrate – 67.9 g

Fat – 5.9 g

Fiber – 19.9 g

See full nutritional details of quinoa in Quinoa glossary click here.

Healthy Cooking with Quinoa

A. Salads 

1. Quinoa Paneer Carrot Peppers Salad

2. Quinoa Corn and Capsicum Salad

3. Quinoa with Roasted Vegetables and Tahini Dressing 

4. Quinoa Avocado Salad

5. Quinoa Brown Rice Vegetable Salad with Balsamic Dressing 

6. Quinoa Feta and Mixed Veg Salad

7. Black Bean Quinoa Salad

B. Snacks
1. Quinoa Patty, Veg Patty with Eggs and Oats

2. Quinoa Veg Upma, Vegan Breakfast

Must Read…
All About Quinoa Flour

Explore Cooking with Quinoa Flour

1. Mini Quinoa Pancakes

2. Quinoa Muthia

3. Quinoa Kale Khakhra

4. Quinoa Dosa

5. Quinoa Pancakes with Beet Cheese Sauce

9 Super Benefits Of Quinoa



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Salads like this make a wonderful meal! With peppy flavours and a plethora of textures, the Quinoa Paneer Carrot Pepper Salad is ideal for lunch or dinner. It has a good mix of food groups, which makes it filling and nourishing. Make sure you cool the cooked quinoa and sautéed paneer well before mixing it with the other ingredients. Pack the lemony dressing in a separate container, and mix it with the salad ingredients just before eating, to relish the bright flavour and fresh textures of this salad. Quinoa is a complete protein, and together with paneer it caters to your protein requirements for the day. Carrots are wonderful for your eyesight, while lettuce is a low-cal ingredient that abounds in nutrients like calcium , iron , folate, and vitamins A and C . All together, these nutritious ingredients make the salad a complete meal!

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Quinoa corn capsicum salad recipe | quinoa salad | Quinoa corn and capsicum in lemon herb dressing | with 17 amazing images. Bask in the goodness of the ‘wonder grain’ with this fantastic Quinoa, Corn and Capsicum Salad. The unique texture of cooked quinoa is a perfect match for succulent sweet corn and crunchy capsicum. The dressing adds lemony, herby and spicy accents to the salad, making it a holistic treat for the taste buds. Make sure you cool the cooked quinoa completely before tossing the quinoa salad, so that the grains separate and do not clump together. Quinoa corn and capsicum salad is light on tummy and healthy. Also, it is super easy to make. You can make quinoa salad for when you have party or a family get-together, this colourful salad looks eye-appealing on the dinner table. I am sure your guests would take a bow at your cooking skills. This Quinoa corn and capsicum in lemon herb dressing is a great option for those suffering from hyperthyroidism. Quinoa is considered as a healthy grain from them along with other cereals like barley and oats. Along with sweet corn and olive oil, this salad is a healthy choice as compared to other oil-laden salads which may also include fried croutons and cheese. Check other ingredients which are allowed in Hyperthyroidism. If you like you can mount your salad with lettuce, water cress or baby spinach. You can also add in feta cheese or paneer if you wish to. Serve as a side dish with a Main Course or with a bowl of one of your favorite Soups and Bread. Enjoy Quinoa corn capsicum salad recipe | quinoa salad | Quinoa corn and capsicum in lemon herb dressing | with detailed step by step recipe photos and videos below.

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Quinoa with Roasted Vegetables and Tahini Dressing is an amazing culinary treat, which combines multiple textures and flavours in a very apt way. Here, cooked quinoa is bathed in the famous Lebanese Tahini and topped with roasted veggies, which add an amazing flavour and a splash of colours to the quinoa. The Tahini sauce too, with the tang of curds and lemon juice, and the peppy aroma of sesame seeds, adds more fun and flavour to the dish. Prepare the roasted vegetables just before serving because it will lose its crispness and flavour. In specific, if you have added salt and prepared the veggies before, it will release water and make the recipe runny – and funny! While making the Tahini too, use thick hung curds or Greek yoghurt only, so that you are assured of a creamy and luscious mouth-feel! You will also enjoy other quinoa recipes like Quinoa, Corn and Capsicum Salad and Coconut Quinoa with Coconut Curry .

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Here’s one more mind-blowing way to include healthy quinoa in your diet. A lunch salad made of cooked quinoa, sprouts, avocado, yummy veggies and mushroom, this salad has a scrumptious mouth-feel and a colourful, attractive appearance. Tossed with a lemon and garlic dressing, it also has a vibrant flavour that takes it beyond the plane of commonness. What’s more, this extraordinary Quinoa Avocado Veg Healthy Office Salad is also bursting with good health! Quinoa is rich in fibre and protein . Being a whole grain, it keeps you full and does not cause your blood sugar levels to surge. Avocado is loaded with good healthy fat, while other ingredients are rich in antioxidants that prevent major diseases. Keep the dressing in a separate box, and mix it together with the salad just before eating your lunch.

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quinoa brown rice vegetable salad with balsamic dressing recipe | healthy brown rice quinoa vegetable salad | quinoa brown rice salad | how to make brown rice quinoa salad | with 15 amazing images. Quinoa Brown Rice Vegetable Salad with Balsamic Dressing is a one dish meal which can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Healthy Brown Rice Quinoa Vegetable Salad has a has a mind-blowing crunch that can easily outdo other choices. Learn how to make brown rice quinoa salad. To make quinoa brown rice vegetable salad with balsamic dressing, prepare the balsamic dressing with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, sesame seeds, salt and pepper powder. Keep the dressing aside and prep for the veggies and quinoa. First boil the quinoa to perfection and add it to a bowl. Toss in cooked kabuli chana, capsicum, blanched broccoli and salt along with the prepared balsamic dressing. Toss it and the salad is ready for serving. This healthy brown rice quinoa vegetable salad fulfills your need at lunch or dinner time, since it has a cereal, veggies and olive oil too. Combining cereals and veggies with a dressing in a salad is always a great idea as it produces a very balanced taste and texture. Make it and reap its benefits. Quinoa brown rice salad is a fiber and protein rich salad which will boost your metabolism. If you want to indulge into this salad for weight loss or managing blood sugar levels, then avoid the brown rice. The fiber in this salad will help you satiate and prevents constipation too. This lovely healthy brown rice quinoa vegetable salad gives you a bit of everything – tanginess, juiciness and crunchiness. Enjoy quinoa brown rice vegetable salad with balsamic dressing recipe | healthy brown rice quinoa vegetable salad | quinoa brown rice salad | how to make brown rice quinoa salad | with step by step photos. Try other quinoa recipes like Quinoa, Corn and Capsicum Salad and Coconut Quinoa with Coconut Curry.

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quinoa feta and veg salad recipe | quinoa salad with feta | healthy Indian quinoa veggie salad | with 31 amazing images. quinoa feta and veg salad recipe | quinoa salad with feta | healthy Indian quinoa veggie salad is a pleasing salad bowl with an appealing hue. Learn how to make quinoa salad with feta. To make quinoa feta and veg salad, combine all ingredients in a deep bowl and mix well. Pour the dressing over it and toss well. Serve immediately. Here is another fabulous way to include quinoa in your diet. The quinoa salad with feta is sumptuous and tasty, with a good blend of quinoa, fresh veggies and feta cheese. The unique taste and mouth-feel of feta cheese goes very well with the juicy veggies. The combination of veggies is also good – some being crunchy, some juicy, and also a bit of creaminess from avocadoes. The dressing of the healthy Indian quinoa veggie salad is easy but well balanced with honey for sweetness, lemon for tang and pepper for spice! Indeed, this amazing salad is a well-rounded treat for your palate and you will enjoy every mouthful. Benefit from antioxidants like lycopene from tomatoes, capsaicin from capsicum, quercetin from onion, vitamin E from avocado and kaempferol, saponins and zinc from quinoa. These together will ensure a healthy you by warding off harmful free radicals and protecting your organs. Further you can also gain in some protein by way of feta which can aid in bone strengthening process and boosting metabolism. While weight-watchers and heart patients can enjoy this quinoa feta and veg salad as it is, for diabetics it is recommended to avoid the use of honey and reduce the quantity of lemon juice to balance the flavours well. Try other quinoa recipes like Quinoa, Corn and Capsicum Salad or Coconut Quinoa with Coconut Curry. Tips for quinoa feta and veg salad. 1. Make the salad and put in the fridge. Just before serving add the dressing. 2. If you don't have cherry tomatoes use regular tomatoes. Enjoy quinoa feta and veg salad recipe | quinoa salad with feta | healthy Indian quinoa veggie salad | with step by step photos.

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This Black Bean Quinoa Veg Salad is a super tasty and exciting way to consume power-packed ingredients like quinoa, beans and veggies. It has ingredients of various textures, which gives you a wonderful mouth-feel. The Orange Vinaigrette Dressing, which combines orange juice with honey, herbs and spices causes a burst of flavour when you munch on this salad! This multi-textured, multi-coloured, multi-flavoured salad is a truly appetizing treat that you will want to make and enjoy quite often. It is grand enough to be included in a party menu too. You can also try other interesting recipes using quinoa like Quinoa Muthia , Quinoa and Ragi Pancakes with Beet Cheese Sauce , Coconut Quinoa with Coconut Curry , Blueberry Quinoa Coconut Pancakes with Eggs and Lemony Quinoa and Baby Spinach Soup .

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An excitingly unique snack that’s both filling and tasty, the Quinoa Patty is one that is enjoyed by people of all ages. The quinoa is combined with juicy and crunchy veggies, oats, eggs and garlic, to make yummy patties. The off-beat combination of ingredients like quinoa, oats and eggs gives the patty a nice texture. Although it is cooked with minimal oil in a non-stick tava, this patty has an admirable crispiness when it is served hot and fresh. Relish it with your favourite sauce or chutney . You can also try other quinoa recipes like the Quinoa Muthia and Coconut Quinoa with Coconut Curry. Enjoy how to make Quinoa Patty recipe with detailed step by step photos below.

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quinoa upma recipe | vegetable quinoa upma | veg Indian upma | how to make quinoa upma | with 26 amazing images. Quinoa upma recipe is a truly healthy recipe made as a replacement to rava upma. What makes it healthy vegetable quinoa upma? The addition of veggies, peanuts and lemon juice. Learn how to make quinoa upma. To make quinoa upma, first wash the and drain the quinoa. Then make a tempering of oil and allow the mustard seeds to crackle. Once done, add little hing, green chillies, ginger and curry leaves and sauté for a few seconds. Similarly sauté the peanuts and onions also individually. Add veggies like green peas and carrot and cook them for 2 minutes. Finally add the drained quinoa, salt, chilli powder and water and cook it for about 20 minutes. Use the measured amount of water as mentioned in the recipe so that it cooks perfectly. Finally add lemon juice and coriander, mix well and serve. Quinoa is a protein rich food which is perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The fibre in it satiates you for long time. So it is perfect for weight-watchers. The fiber also helps to curb cholesterol in the body. It’s low glycemic index (53) qualifies it as a healthy food for diabetic too. So why wait to try the recipe of healthy vegetable quinoa upma which has so many benefits to count on. You can gain in some antioxidants by way of veggies like onions and carrots added in this quinoa veg Indian upma. These help to reduce inflammation in the body and work towards and glowing skin too. A serving of this quinoa upma fulfills 11% of your days requirement for iron . Do not miss out on sprinkling lemon juice at the end, as the vitamin C in it will further help in the absorption of iron. Enjoy quinoa upma recipe | vegetable quinoa upma | veg Indian upma | how to make quinoa upma | with step by step photos.

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quinoa oats pancakes recipe | quinoa oats vegetable pancakes for Irritable bowel syndrome | healthy quinoa vegetable Indian pancake | with 25 amazing images. quinoa oats pancakes recipe is a healthy Indian pancake. Learn how to make quinoa vegetable pancakes for Irritable bowel syndrome. Go for a healthy lifestyle by having quinoa oats pancakes. Quinoa and oats, considered by many as a wonder grain, is quite stomach-friendly and suitable for those with IBS. We have made an interesting snack using quinoa, oats and veggies, without spices and with minimal fat. These mini quinoa vegetable pancakes for Irritable bowel syndrome have the unique and characteristic taste of quinoa flour, oats flour which combines beautifully with the crunch and juiciness of veggies like carrots and spinach. It is important to serve these quinoa oats pancakes immediately before they get dry, because we have not used much oil. Also take care to cook quinoa vegetable pancakes for Irritable bowel syndrome on a medium flame, otherwise they will not get completely cooked and will retain a raw taste. quinoa oats vegetable pancakes are a delicious and healthy breakfast option that the whole family will enjoy. Enjoy quinoa oats pancakes recipe | quinoa oats vegetable pancakes for Irritable bowel syndrome | healthy quinoa vegetable Indian pancake | with step by step photos.

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quinoa muthia recipe | quinoa vegetable muthia | Gujarati muthia with doodhi | with 35 amazing images. quinoa muthia recipe | quinoa vegetable muthia | Gujarati muthia with doodhi is a Gujarati snack with a twist. Learn how to make quinoa vegetable muthia. To make quinoa muthia, squeeze out all the excess water from the bottle gourd. Combine the quinoa flour, besan, semolina, bottle gourd, 1 tsp oil, green chilli paste, soda, ¼ tsp of asafoetida, turmeric powder, sugar, lemon juice and salt in a deep bowl, mix well and knead into a soft dough using ¼ cup of water. Apply ¼ tsp of oil on your hands and divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into approximately 150 mm. (6”) length and 25 mm. (1”) in diameter cylindrical roll. Arrange 2 rolls on a greased sieve and steam in a steamer for 12 minutes or till a knife inserted into the muthia comes out clean. Repeat step 5 to steam 1 more batch. Remove, cool slightly and cut into 25 mm. (1“) slices using a sharp knife. Keep aside. For the tempering of Gujarati muthia with doodhi, heat the remaining 6 tsp of oil in a broad non-stick pan and add the mustard seeds, sesame seeds, curry leaves, and remaining ¼ tsp of asafoetida and sauté on a medium flame for a few seconds. Add the muthia pieces and sauté on a medium flame for 3 to 4 minutes. Serve immediately garnished with coriander. Muthia is an all-time favourite snack of the Gujaratis. A spiced dough is shaped into cylinders by gripping the dough between the palms, which is what gives it the name ‘muthia’ or fist. While muthia is traditionally made with besan and rava, here we added quinoa flour to the Gujarati muthia with doodhi, to make it a stronger team! These quinoa vegetable muthia are then steamed and tempered with seeds and curry leaves to get an aromatic and delectably tasty treat. You are sure to enjoy the homely taste and amazing mouth-feel of this snack! Serve it hot and fresh with a peppy garnish of coriander. Try other muthia variants like the Methi Muthias or Mooli Muthia. Tips for quinoa muthia. 1. Use soda from a packet which is unopened or recently opened for best soft muthia. 2. The dough has to be soft and not stiff. 3. Remember to cool the muthia before making slices. Enjoy quinoa muthia recipe | quinoa vegetable muthia | Gujarati muthia with doodhi | with step by step photos.

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quinoa kale khakhra recipe | healthy quinoa and oats khakhra | Indian style masala quinoa khakhra | healthy Indian snack | with 22 amazing images. quinoa kale khakhra recipe | healthy quinoa and oats khakhra | Indian style masala quinoa khakhra | healthy Indian snack is a crispy munchie for health conscious. Learn how to make healthy quinoa and oats khakhra. To make quinoa kale khakhra, combine all the ingredients in a deep bowl and knead into a semi-soft dough using enough water. Divide the dough into 10 equal portions. Roll out a portion of dough into a 150 mm (6”) diameter circle using a little whole wheat flour for rolling. Heat a concave non-stick tava (griddle) and half cook the roti. Remove on a plate and brush it lightly using ¼ tsp of olive oil. Repeat steps 3 to 5 to half cook and brush the remaining rotis. Heat a concave non-stick tava (griddle) and cook each brushed roti on a slow flame until crisp using little pressure with help of a muslin cloth or with a khakhra press. Repeat step 7 to make 9 more khakhras. Allow them to cool completely and store in an air-tight container. Khakhras are a crispy snack which are enjoyed by one and all. These Indian style masala quinoa khakhra are made by a combination of three power packed foods – quinoa, kale and oats. Kale is high in fibre and vitamins. It is a rich source of fibre and a great detox food. Quinoa increases your energy and is high in protein. The addition of sesame seeds elevates the aroma, while also adding to its crunchiness and small quantities of iron. The half-cooking of these healthy quinoa and oats khakhra and then re-cooking decreases the overall cooking time and gives a crisp texture. This healthy Indian snack is bound of all nutrients and an amazing alternative to kill your hunger pangs especially during office hours. Make these khakhras in batches and store them in an air-tight container. Try similar khakhra recipes Mini Oats Khakhra or Whole Wheat and Methi Khakhra. Tips for quinoa kale khakhra. 1. Do not keep the dough for too long. It might release water and make rolling difficult. 2. Remember to cook the khakhras on a slow flame so they turn crisp. 3. Cool completely before storing. Enjoy quinoa kale khakhra recipe | healthy quinoa and oats khakhra | Indian style masala quinoa khakhra | healthy Indian snack | with step by step photos.

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quinoa dosa recipe | healthy quinoa dosa | quinoa urad dal and whole wheat flour dosa | with 5 images. quinoa dosa recipe is a healthy quinoa dosa. Made from just 4 healthy ingredients, quinoa, urad dal, whole wheat flour and ghee, this is a popular quinoa dosa recipe we make at home. In this quick and easy recipe, we show you how to make tasty quinoa dosa. Made with a batter that blends quinoa and wheat flour with urad, these dosas are very tasty and have an amazing mouth-feel too. The batter requires no fermentation, so you can make this quinoa dosa at any time, although you must provide an hour’s time for the urad to soak before grinding it. See why we find this a healthy quinoa dosa recipe? Quinoa lowers cholesterol and reduces heart diseases. The soluble fibre in this grain gains the credit of reducing the total blood cholesterol and LDL (bad cholesterol) levels in our body. Harnessed with nutrients like protein, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, quinoa has been considered as the bone-building power grain. 1 cup of cooked urad dal gives 69.30% of your daily requirement of folic acid. The folic acid in urad dal helps your body to produce and maintain new cells, especially red blood cells. So go ahead and enjoy this healthy quinoa dosa today. Instead of the usual rice dosas, enjoy these healthy quinoa dosas for breakfast, with sambhar and chutney. Try other dosa recipes like Dosa or Rava Dosa. Learn to make quinoa dosa recipe | healthy quinoa dosa | quinoa urad dal and whole wheat flour dosa | with step by step photos below.

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Keep aside some time to prepare this, but worry not, you will be amazed by the results and will look forward to preparing it again! Delicious pancakes made of quinoa and ragi flours are stuffed with a unique filling of mushrooms and water chestnuts, and topped with a pleasantly-coloured, gooey-textured beet cheese sauce. The Quinoa and Ragi Pancakes with Mushroom and Water Chestnut Filling and Beet Sauce looks awesome and tastes outta-this-world! Serve it immediately on preparation.

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