Quinoa Health Benefits: 5 Easy Recipes for Latinos Favorite Superfood

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Latinos can't get enough of one of their favorite grains dating as far back as the time of the Incas and their descendants, who referred to it as the "mother of all grains." Due to the high nutritive value of quinoa (pronounced as "Keen-Wa"), the United Nations, through the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), officially marked the year 2013 as "The International Year of the Quinoa."

The superfood, as deemed by many health enthusiasts, is packed with calcium, magnesium, manganese, several B vitamins, vitamin E. Its protein content is double that of found in rice or barley. It is an excellent source of protein because it provides all the nine essential amino acids including lysine and isoleucine acids, which are both lacking in other grains, says BBC Good Food.

Apart from having complete protein, it is also a good source of fiber. According to an article from the Huffington Post, it has twice the fiber content of most grains. High-fiber foods can help in fighting heart diseases, lowering cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

It also has a low glycemic index, too. "The glycemic index is a measure of how quickly foods raise blood sugar levels. It is known that eating foods that are high on the glycemic index can stimulate hunger and contribute to obesity," wrote Authority Nutrition. "Such foods have also been linked to many of the chronic, Western diseases that are so common today... like diabetes and heart disease."

Quinoa is also perfect for those who are prone to allergic reactions as it is considered as one of the least allergenic grains. It is a gluten-free food suited for those with the celiac disease. Vegans can also benefit from the consumption of quinoa to compensate for the lack of protein in most foods that are part of their diet.

Most Latinos have their own way of consuming quinoa. Some like it as a cereal for breakfast, while others like it on their salads and side dishes. Here are some easy recipes you might want to try.

Quinoa Pancakes

This recipe is perfect for breakfast or light lunch or dinner. Enjoy it with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil add a kick to these mini patties. Check out the recipe from Health.com.

Quinoa & Arugula

This one is a very simple but nutritious recipe for those who want some easy-to-prepare salad. Some of the ingredients include vinaigrette, tomato, cucumber, arugula and pine nuts, says Rachael Ray.

Quinoa Enchilada Casserole

Now this one is for those who would want to give their enchilada recipe a healthy twist. Black beans and cheese add a lot of goodness to this dish. Go to DamnDelicious.net for the complete recipe.

Chicken and Quinoa Burritos

Burritos anyone? Try out this quinoa and whole-wheat burrito stuffed with chicken, black beans, and avocado from Real Simple.

Toasted Quinoa with Chiles and Corn

This recipe is perfect as a side dish with a spicy kick to go along with your favorite meals. Check the recipe here.