Recipe By Cathy Perry
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter or extra virgin olive oil (I use a combination)
1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
1 medium carrot, chopped (1/2 cup)
1 cup dry quinoa
2 cups hot low sodium vegetable or chicken stock
8 ounces asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces (8 to 10 stalks)
2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/8 teaspoon pepper
salt to taste
Directions:
1. Melt butter in 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Cook asparagus, onion and carrot in butter 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp-tender. Remove asparagus and set aside. Stir in quinoa. Cook and stir 1 minute.
2. Pour hot stock over quinoa and. Cook uncovered about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid is absorbed. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Cook 15 to 20 minutes longer, adding stock 1 cup at a time and stirring frequently, until liquid is absorbed; remove from heat. Stir in asparagus and remaining ingredients.
3. *For softer grains increase broth and cooking time.
4. Serve hot or at room temperature.
