This is a great side dish featuring quinoa, one of the many Smart Carbs listed on the Vemma Bod-e Trainer Smart Food Guide. Those of you following the Carb-Cycling plan will want to make this on a high carb day. Remember the serving size for a Smart Carb is about the size of your fist. If you are interested in finding out more about carb-cycling please ask us, or register for a Smart Loss Seminar.

This recipe is from Everyday FOOD (thanks, Martha)

One serving of quinoa (about the size of your fist)

1 T olive oil

1 finely chopped small yellow onion

1 minced clove garlic (or more)

1 cup uncooked quinoa

5 cups baby spinach

1 T lemon zest

In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until soft, about 4 minutes. Saute one cup of rinsed, but not cooked quinoa in pan for about one minute. Add 1 1/4 cups water and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered until water is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Stir in spinach and lemon zest, then season with salt and pepper. Serves 4

Pretty easy…totally ready in 30 minutes. Serve with your choice of lean protein approximately the size and thickness of your palm!