Quinoa, But Make It NAYA: Meet Our New SIMPLi Tri-color Quinoa
Quinoa (pronounced keen wah) isn’t just a trendy grain you’ve seen on every health blog—it’s a nutritional powerhouse that’s been around for over 5,000 years. Originating in South America, quinoa’s popularity has skyrocketed, and for good reason. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients that make it a must-have in any diet. Now, you can enjoy the benefits of quinoa in your favorite dishes with the introduction of SIMPLi Tri-color Quinoa on the menu.
Why Quinoa? Because Your Taste Buds and Body Deserve the Best
Let’s dive into the world of quinoa (keen wah), the ancient grain that’s been cultivated in South America for over 5,000 years. Quinoa's popularity continues to rise. There are solid reasons why quinoa is here to stay. Here’s why eating quinoa should be a regular part of your diet:
Protein Powerhouse:
Quinoa is a complete protein, we mean it. This grain contains all the essential amino acids your body can’t produce on its own. So, whether you’re building muscle or just want to stay fuller longer, eating quinoa has you covered. Think of it as the Swiss Army knife of grains—versatile, reliable, and always up for the task.
Fiber Fix:
Quinoa isn’t just about protein; it’s also packed with dietary fiber. In a world where processed foods reign supreme, fiber is like that friend who always tells it to you straight. The high fiber content in quinoa helps keep your digestion running smoothly, supports gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria, and even works to balance your blood sugar levels. It’s a win for your digestive system and your overall health.
Nutrient Value:
Quinoa is rich in magnesium (great for your muscles), iron (keeps your energy levels high), potassium (hello, heart health), and zinc (boosts your immune system). These nutrients are vital for everything from maintaining heart health to supporting nutrient absorption and energy production. It’s like a multi-vitamin, but way more fun to eat.
Gluten-Free Goodness:
For those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and nutritious choice for those avoiding gluten-containing grains. Quinoa offers a tasty alternative to other grains like wheat, oats, and corn, providing all the nutrition without the gluten. Plus, the flavor of cooked quinoa is so satisfying, you won’t even miss those gluten carb sources.
Supports Heart Health:
Quinoa is rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress, a key factor in cardiovascular disease. Its high fiber content also helps lower cholesterol levels and regulate blood sugar, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Aids in Weight Management:
Quinoa’s high fiber content promotes satiety, helping you feel full longer and reducing overall calorie intake. Combined with its protein content, which supports muscle maintenance and growth, quinoa is an excellent choice for those aiming to manage their weight while staying nourished.
SIMPLi Tri-color Quinoa: Quality You Can Taste
Quality matters, especially when it comes to the food you eat. That’s why SIMPLi Tri-color Quinoa is such a great addition to your meals.
SIMPLi is committed to offering wholesome, sustainable grains and superfoods, focusing on quality, nutrition, and transparency. They provide a variety of products, including quinoa, amaranth, and chia, all sourced directly from farmers to ensure fair trade practices. SIMPLi's mission is to make nutritious foods accessible while supporting healthy lifestyles and sustainable agriculture. They prioritize ethical sourcing, environmental stewardship, and community well-being, striving to create a positive impact on both people and the planet.
For more information, visit their Who We Are page.
What Makes SIMPLi Tri-color Quinoa a NAYA Favorite?
Tri-color Triumph:
Let’s talk about SIMPLi’s Tri-color quinoa—a beautiful blend of white, red, and black quinoa seeds that adds a pop of color and a punch of flavor to your plate. The different colors aren’t just for show; they each bring their unique texture and taste to the mix. White quinoa is light and fluffy, red quinoa has a slightly nutty flavor, and black quinoa is known for its earthy richness. Together, they create a symphony of flavors that makes every bite exciting.
Sustainably Sourced:
While we’re using Tri-color quinoa (not the regenerative variety), SIMPLi’s farming practices still earn a round of applause. They’re all about sustainability, ensuring that their quinoa is grown in a way that’s good for the earth and good for you. It’s farming done right, and that’s something we can all feel good about.
How We’re Serving Up SIMPLi Tri-color Quinoa at NAYA
At NAYA, we’re all about giving you options. We know that everyone’s tastes are different, and we believe that you should be able to enjoy your lunch or dinner exactly the way you like it. That’s why we offer SIMPLi Tri-color Quinoa as a bowl base. No matter what you’re craving, quinoa is the perfect complement to our flavorful offerings.
Perfect Quinoa Pairings For You to Try at NAYA:
Chicken Shawarma:
The savory, spiced flavors of our chicken shawarma pair perfectly with the nutty flavor of cooked quinoa. The tender, juicy chicken combined with quinoa creates a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Falafel:
For a plant-based option, our crispy, golden falafel is a match made in heaven with quinoa. The light texture of quinoa complements the crunch of falafel, making every bite delightful. Plus, the combination is rich in protein and dietary fiber, supporting a healthy diet.
Kafta Lamb:
Our kafta lamb, with its flavorful blend of seasoned beef and lamb, is another excellent protein to enjoy with quinoa. The quinoa’s mild taste absorbs the rich flavors of the kafta, offering a hearty, satisfying meal.
Pickled Turnips and Lebanese Pickles:
These tangy, crunchy toppings add a refreshing contrast to the fluffy quinoa, enhancing the overall texture and flavor of your lunch or dinner.
Cabbage Slaw:
The crisp cabbage slaw, seasoned with dry mint and lemon, pairs beautifully with quinoa, adding a zesty crunch to your bowl.
Yogurt Cucumber:
For a creamy, cool contrast, top your quinoa with our yogurt and cucumber mix. It’s a refreshing addition that balances the nutty flavor of the grain.
Hummus or Spicy Hummus:
The creamy, rich texture of hummus pairs wonderfully with the light, fluffy quinoa. If you’re in the mood for a bit of heat, opt for the spicy hummus to add an extra kick to your meal.
Tabboule:
This fresh, herbaceous salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat is a perfect companion to quinoa. The bright flavors of tabboule complement the nutty taste of quinoa, making for a refreshing and nutritious combination.
Baba Ghannouj:
Smoky, creamy baba ghannouj, made from roasted eggplant, is another excellent side that pairs well with quinoa. The rich, earthy flavors of baba ghannouj enhance the quinoa, creating a satisfying and flavorful lunch or dinner.
Labne:
This thick, creamy Lebanese soft cheese is a great addition to your quinoa-based meal. The tanginess of labne balances the mellow flavor of quinoa, adding a refreshing element to your dish.
More Than Just Food: Meet The Sustainable Super grain
We’ve already touched on the nutritional benefits of quinoa, but there’s more to this superfood than meets the eye. Quinoa isn’t just good for you—it’s good for the planet, too. Here’s why quinoa is a grain you can feel good about eating:
Sustainability:
Quinoa is a drought-resistant crop, meaning it requires less water to grow than many other grains. This makes it a sustainable choice for farmers, especially in regions where water is scarce. By choosing SIMPLi quinoa, you’re supporting farming practices that are better for the environment and help ensure a more sustainable food system for the future.
Versatility:
One of the best things about quinoa is its versatility. Whether you’re eating lunch, dinner, quinoa fits the bill. It’s great in savory dishes, and the combination possibilities are endless, and that’s why we love it.
Cultural Significance:
Quinoa has been a staple in the diets of indigenous people in the Andes for thousands of years. It’s more than just a grain—it’s a cultural icon that represents resilience, tradition, and nourishment. By incorporating quinoa into our menu, we’re not just serving food; we’re honoring a rich history and a tradition of sustainable, wholesome eating.
Join the Quinoa Craze at NAYA
Ready to get your quinoa fix? We thought so.