Tropical Quinoa: A Healthy Brazilian Delight

In the search for tasty and nutritious meals, we often forget to explore the potential of local and tropical ingredients that Brazil so richly possesses.

The “Tropical Quinoa Surprise” dish not only incorporates the best of healthy cuisine, but also brings a touch of Brazilianness that enhances the natural flavor of the food.

Combining the protein Complemented by quinoa with tropical fruits and refreshing spices, this recipe offers an explosion of culinary innovation and essential nutrients, perfect for those looking for a lifestyle healthy and balanced.

Detailed Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa – Washed and drained.
• 2 cups of water – To cook the quinoa.
• 1 pinch of sea salt – To season the quinoa.
• 1 ripe mango – Cut into small cubes.
• 1 medium avocado – Cut into cubes.
• 1/2 fresh pineapple – Cut into small cubes.
• 1 Japanese cucumber – Cut into thin slices.
• 1/2 red onion – Finely chopped.
• 1 chili pepper – Seedless and chopped (optional).
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves – Stings.
• Juice of 1 Tahiti lime.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil.
• Salt and black pepper – to taste.

Replacement Options: Quinoa can be replaced with wild rice for a different texture, and the fruits can be adapted according to preference, such as using kiwi or strawberries.

Detailed Preparation Method

1. Cooking Quinoa:

   • In a medium saucepan, add the quinoa, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
   • Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until water is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Let cool.

2. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine the mango, avocado, pineapple, cucumber, red onion, chili pepper and coriander leaves.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • Add the cooked quinoa to the fruit and vegetable mixture.
   • In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice and olive oil. Drizzle this dressing over the salad and mix well.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Presentation:

   • Serve the salad in an attractive bowl, garnishing with a few additional cilantro leaves on top.

Extra Information

• Nutritional Value: Approximately 320 calories per serving, rich in fibers, vitamins A, C, and E, plus a healthy dose of fatty acids.
• Side dishes: Ideal to accompany a grilled fish fillet or a lemon chicken breast.
• Occasion: Perfect for light summer lunches, post-workout meals due to its high vegetable protein and vitamins.
• Estimated Cost: R$ 30.00 (varies depending on the region).
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes.
• Difficulty Level: Easy; ideal for beginners in the kitchen.
• Useful Tips: For a vegan version, make sure all the ingredients and toppings are vegan too. Customize by adding nuts or seeds for crunch.

History

The “Tropical Quinoa Surprise” was born from a convergence of childhood memories and the constant desire to renew the gastronomic experience.

I remember sunny afternoons at grandma's house, where we played around the mango and pineapple trees.

It was impossible to resist the temptation of tasting the fruit straight from the tree, enjoying its fresh and authentic flavors.

Years later, as I began my journey to freedom and health through cooking, I decided to combine the nostalgia of these memories with the search for contemporary and healthy ingredients.

This is how this dish came about, which, in addition to being nourishing, promises to bring back the joy of moments well lived.