Banana Quinoa Pudding

Back in September, my mom and I went to community day at the YMCA. One of the things we were able to participate in was the "Something's Cooking" class. The teacher was fantastic and one of the things she made and had us sample at the end was Banana Quinoa Pudding.

She spoke about healthy snacks and desserts quite a bit, which got the parents in the room interested. I think most kids would enjoy eating this dessert, as long as the texture of the quinoa doesn't bother them, like it did my husband.

(Sorry for the yellow photos. I have been trying to use Paige's flash trick lately and didn't attempt it this time, but it has worked quite well)



I finally made the pudding last night and loved it!





Banana Quinoa Pudding

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups water
3/4 cup quinoa
2 cups low fat milk or soy milk or almond milk
2 ripe bananas
2 tablespoons white sugar or sugar substitute
salt to taste
1/2 tablespoon butter (optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (omit if using vanilla flavored milk)

Recipe adapted from allrecipes.com

Directions

-Rinse and drain the quinoa. Bring water and quinoa to a boil in a saucepan over high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from the heat.

-Blend together the milk, bananas, sugar, and salt in the bowl of a blender or food processor until smooth. Pour the milk mixture into the saucepan with the quinoa.

-Place the pan over medium heat. Cook and stir until the mixture becomes thick and creamy, 5 to 10 minutes. Remove from the heat. Stir in the butter and vanilla (if desired) and serve warm.

Approximately 4 servings. Protein per serving: 8.9 g; total calories and fat depend on type of milk used.



If you are looking for a different way to use quinoa, do yourself a favor and make this!

Excited that I have some leftover for a healthy dessert this week.

Have a wonderful Monday.