Quinoa is a seed that is native to the Andes Mountains has been cultivated as a food source since ancient times. Though not itself a grain, it is often used as a substitute for nearly any other grain. To this end, it possesses many advantages both as a food and as a crop.
As quinoa is related to spinach, it possesses many strong nutritional attributes that have made it popular as a health food. It is a rich source of protein, potassium, iron, dietary fiber, and an assortment of other important vitamins and minerals. Further, its delicate taste allows it to blend in nicely with a wide variety of dishes.
Agricultural speaking, quinoa is very easy to cultivate. It has evolved to thrive in harsh mountain environments, growing even in bad soil, dry climates, and high altitudes. Today, it is largely grown in the mountains of South America and the Colorado Rockies.
At Amaro Bistro’s Italian restaurant in Bothell, you can enjoy the strong benefits of quinoa in the form of our quinoa and asparagi salad. Try it out tonight!