So, they call it Keen-Wa?!?!

Well hello from the Mrs.! I hope you all have been doing great. Almost two years ago, Dr. Von Mitchler started buying this crazy stuff I had never heard of before called Quinoa (pronounced Keen- Wa at our house). I had never heard of this stuff before, so I really didn't know what to do with it, how to cook it, etc. As I began gathering more plant based recipes, I was seeing Quinoa listed more and more. Come to find out, it's a very versatile grain packed with TONS of protein, and is gluten free- all around win win around here.  Its super easy to cook, and can be used in so many recipes from muffins that pack a protein punch, to veggie burgers,  chili, to this awesome little recipe you will see below....we have evolved into big Quinoa fans around here. 

So today, I will be sharing with you all what I consider a true little gem of a recipe.  You know why I love this one so much....it's  just as easy as it is good!  This is great for a quick light lunch or double the recipe and enjoy this one on your back porch with a lemonade and a little fruit on the side as a summer evening dinner. So, come on, try this one Y'all! I would love to hear what you think of one of my favorite go to, quick recipes. I am pretty sure it will be a hit in your home, just like it is in ours. 

Hummus Quinoa Cakes

Ingredients

• 1 c cooked quinoa
• ½ c hummus - homemade or store bought ( we love the Wild Garden brand)
• ½ c red pepper - minced
• 1 celery stalk - minced
• 2 scallions - chopped
• ½ tbs olive oil
• tomato slices and extra hummus - optional garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine quinoa with hummus, red pepper, celery and scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium high heat and add olive oil once heated.
3. Form quinoa mixture into palm-sized patties*** and brown in pan, working in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
4. Serve with additional hummus and tomato slices

***When time allows I will stick the Quinoa patties in the fridge for 10 minutes to help them  firm up a bit before browning the patties so they will stay together better. 

Adapted from: http://thelemonbowl.com/2012/10/hummus-quinoa-cakes.html