fruits and nuts breakfast quinoa

Quinoa is the protein and fiber packed wonder grain that is here to save your morning. I usually enjoy quinoa in savory dishes cooked in veggie stock like rice and served with veggies. But after a moment of weakness this morning, starting my day off with a vegan chocolate muffin and a huge glass of black tea (or two) I needed something to settle out my foolish sugar and caffeine spike. This is a fruity, naturally sweet treat for breakfast that will get your day started out with plenty of vitamins, minerals, fiber and often lacking from the vegan diet - non-soy protein.

fruits and nuts breakfast quinoa
1/2 cup quinoa
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup rice milk
1/4 cup fruit (I used mangos and mixed berries)
1/4 cup seeds (I used flax and pepitas or pumpkin seeds)
* salt (optional, just a sprinkle to taste)
* agave nectar (optional to drizzle)

Cook the quinoa in the juice and rice milk, simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes. You will know it is done when the grains are transparent and the little coil around the outside that looks like a sprout starts to separate. Add the seeds and fruit at the last minute and stir. This will be very sweet already but if your orange juice is particularly acidic you can add a drizzle of agave nectar or maple syrup to top it off. Yum!