Quinoa with Strawberry Milk: An A+ Breakfast Recipe

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Life has its share of stressors. One source of pressure seems to repeat endlessly… every single day: coming up with healthy, delish meals that are easy to prepare and clean up. 

Yet as I’ve settled into my role of Mom, I’ve come to realize that much of this stress is self-inflicted. It doesn’t need to be as complicated as we make it out to be, and family faves often seem to be the simpler recipes rather than the extravagant options.

Quinoa with strawberry milk is an all-time favorite that ticks all the boxes: it’s healthy, yummy, affordable, and EASY. Older children can make this themselves. All of these reasons are why it’s been on rotation in our house for breakfast (and lunch) since our preschool years. Make it on a Sunday, and heat up individual servings throughout the week. We always run out within a few days here.

Image: A quinoa breakfast bowl
Photo by Jannis Brandt on Unsplash

Health Benefits

Quinoa is an excellent source of plant protein and fiber. With one cup providing 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, it keeps us full longer. And as a complex carbohydrate, it keeps our brain going. Chia seeds’ omega-3 fatty acids enhance brain function and heart health, while strawberries are at the top of the vitamin C list to support a healthy immune system. All A+ benefits for a school and work day!

Ingredients

Quinoa (Determine quantity; I make 1-2 cups for the week.)
1 Cup strawberries (fresh or frozen) I’m sure this can be made with other fruit!
½ Cup water
¼ Cup unsweetened plain almond milk
3 T hemp, chia, or flax seeds
1 T maple syrup

Directions

  1. Cook the quinoa as directed on the package. Double it to keep in the fridge throughout the week to add to salads and soups or to serve as a side. 
  2. Add the rest of the ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth and mixed throughout. Add more water for a thinner consistency and more maple for a sweeter taste.
  3. To serve: Place warm quinoa in a bowl, and spoon cold milk over the warm quinoa. We add up to 1⁄4 cup as a topping; add as much as you like. Heat up the milk if you don’t like the contrast of warm and cold. Sprinkle on other toppings like sliced strawberries, fresh or dried fruit, coconut chips, etc.
  4. Eat immediately! Store the quinoa and strawberry milk in two separate containers. The milk lasts up to three days.
     

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