Sneaking quinoa into yummy chocolate chip cookies.

We all know how good of a protein/ grain quinoa is, and I am always trying to find ways to put it into my foods.
Its pretty easy to add it to meatloaf, black bean meatballs and such.
But now I am trying to add to desserts.
just in case you don't know the benefits of this grain here it is/
Quality Protein/
There are so many quinoa health benefits that I don’t know where to start!  Quinoa is recognized most often for its high quality of protein.  A single cup of cooked quinoa has 8 grams of protein, which is more that most grains.  With so many people trending towards “Meatless Mondays” and even becoming vegetarians, there is no doubt that the protein content is partially responsible for the increase in popularity.  What makes the protein in quinoa so special is that it is considered “complete”.   What this means is that all of the amino acids that we need for health are in quinoa.  This is extremely rare in the plant world!  Of special note is that quinoa is a rich source of lysine, which is the amino acid that our bodies need for cellular repair.
Low-Glycemic Carbohydrates
The carbohydrate content of quinoa is low on the GI scale, meaning they are the “good” slow burning carbohydrates.  This makes is a great alternative for both diabetics and those who are trying to watch their diet.
All the Benefits of Whole Grains
It’s no secret that there are many health benefits of adding whole grains to your diet.  With quinoa, you get all the benefits of whole grains plus the protein!  The fact that grains have been shown to reduce your risk of developing type two diabetes makes it a great food for those who are at risk of developing diabetes.  Additionally, those with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and high cholesterol can also benefit by adding whole grains into their diet.  Whole grains may even protect against obesity and premature death.
Rich in Vitamins, Minerals and Phytonutrients
Quinoa offers the body an abundant source of vitamins and minerals.  The magnesium content is believed to be able to help fight off cardiovascular disease. Quinoa is also a great source of calcium, potassium, iron, zinc, manganese, tryptophan, copper and vitamin E.  A single cup of quinoa has a 5 grams of fiber meaning you can get a significant portion of your daily requirements of fiber in just one meal.
 And now for the recipe/

Chocolate Chip Quinoa Cookies

3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1/2 cup sugar

1 cup margarine, soften

1 1/2 tsp vanilla

1 egg

1 3/4 cups flour

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup chocolate chips

1/2 cup cooked Quinoa

Heat oven to 375. In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, sugar, and margarine; beat until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and egg; blend well. Stir in flour, baking soda and salt; mix well. Stir in chocolate chips and Quinoa. Drop dough by teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake at 375 for 8 to 10 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool 1 minute; remove from cookie sheets.

Now the true taste test came from my 15 year old son, he said they
taste just like a regular chocolate chip cookie, but the texture is just a bit different. You will feel the texture of the grain, but I feel it is very subtle.

If you give these a try let me know how you like them, and how they go over with family.

Next up: Quinoa Black bean meatballs.

Have a beautiful day, and always remember to live life to the fullest.

Bobbi