I might have found a new breakfast favorite! Well, at least for these cooler months–it’s provides a perfect balance of warmth and deliciousness. While I love eggs and smoothies, I’ve been having those every day for weeks, so this quinoa recipe comes as a much-needed variety. It’s also a super healthy alternative to the already healthy option of oatmeal.

Give this one a try and let me know your thoughts. Also, don’t be afraid to make extra and store leftovers in the refrigerator to enjoy the next morning.

Servings: 1
Ultimate Portion Fix: 1/2 purple, 1 red, 1 yellow, 1/2 teaspoon

INGREDIENTS

• 1/4 cup of Quinoa
• 1/3 cup of Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk (or soy–your preference)
• 1/3 cup of Whey Protein Powder (I use Vanilla-flavored)
• 1/4 teaspoon of Organic Raw Cocoa
• Pinch of Cinnamon
• 1/2 cup of Berries or Banana
• 1/2 Water

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Rinse the quinoa to remove the saponin (bitter flavor). I recommend soaking in a cup of water, and gently pinching and rolling the quinoa to rub the exterior. Do this for one minute, and continue to soak in water for 5 minutes.
2. One soaking is complete, pour quinoa into a fine mesh strainer and continue to rinse with fresh water for one minute. Taste to check whether saponin is gone. Repeat again if needed.
3. Bring 1/2 cup of water to boil in a medium saucepan.
4. Pour quinoa in saucepan, decrease heat to low and cover for 8-10 minutes. Check occasionally.
5. Uncover and stir in 1/3 cup of almond milk and a pinch of cinnamon, increasing heat to medium-to-high.
6. Cook uncovered for 4-5 minutes, stirring every minute. Once complete, the quinoa should look somewhat creamy and the milk should not be completely absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and mix in 1/3 cup of protein power and 1/4 teaspoon of raw cacao.
8. Once mixed throughly, serve with 1/2 cup of mixed berries or bananas (or other fruit of choice).