Broccoli Quinoa Pilaf

I am always preaching my love of quinoa to anyone who will listen, but I recently realized I haven't featured that many quinoa recipes lately. I usually cook up a huge batch and just eat it with some veggies and a sprinkle of salad dressing. I wanted to put together a tasty, quick way to enjoy this versatile grain.

Enter broccoli. Did I mention I've been on a huge broccoli kick? After being ambivalent about it for months, I'm suddenly obsessed with adding it to everything. Since I was a little kid I've always been a bit weird about broccoli stalks. I always eat only the "leaves" and not the "stems." This recipe integrates the vitamin and fiber rich stems and I didn't even notice them! Just shred up some broccoli and cook with onion, quinoa and some vegetable broth. The result is a creamy and filling side dish that is super healthy. Best part: it takes only 15 minutes to prepare!

Read more for the full recipe

Ingredients:
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 medium head of broccoli (approx 1lb), cut into florets and washed
1 cup quinoa, dry
2 1/4 cup low sodium vegetable broth
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1/4 cup slivered almonds

Step by Step Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, saute onion on medium heat in olive oil 3-4 minutes
2. Using a food processor, shred broccoli florets and stems (or finely dice with a knife)
3. Add broccoli to pan and toss with onion and olive oil
4. Add quinoa, veggie broth, pepper and paprika
5. Cover and bring to a boil
6. Reduce to medium heat and simmer for 10 minutes, until liquid is absorbed
7. Serve with optional slivered almonds