Recipe: Exotic Quinoa Risotto

For those wanting a unique and delicious twist on a classic gourmet dish, quinoa is a great choice. Keep in mind that risotto made with quinoa will not be as creamy as that made with arborio rice; however, it will have a unique and slightly crunchy texture that will have your guests coming back for second helpings! For even more of a "wow" factor, use black or red quinoa for a visually stunning dish.

Exotic Quinoa Risotto
(Serves 6.)

Ingredients:

Shiitake mushrooms (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 chopped yellow onion
1 minced garlic clove
1/2 cup fresh shiitake mushrooms, sliced thin
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup quinoa, rinsed well
2 1/4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
2 cups arugula, stems removed and arugula chopped
1 carrot, peeled and finely shredded

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and saute about four minutes until translucent. Add quinoa and garlic; cook an additional minute, stirring occasionally. (Garlic should not be allowed to brown.)
3. Add broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to low heat and simmer about twelve minutes until quinoa is  tender but still slightly hard at the center. 
4. Stir in arugula, mushrooms, and carrot, then simmer about two more minutes until quinoa grains become translucent. 
5. Stir in cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.