Cheesey Ham & Quinoa Bites

I'll admit it...this was my first cooking 'experience' with quinoa. And we really liked it! These are great little bites to enjoy for breakfast...starting your day on a healthy note.  (Or ending it as an evening snack). 

Here is a list of some of the health benefits of this new 'Super Grain' I found when I googled the info..

 High quality protein with the nine essential amino acids, the protein balance is similar to milk. At 16.2 to 20 percent protein, it has is more protein than rice (7.5 percent), millet (9.9 percent) or wheat (14 percent).

 Great source of riboflavin. Riboflavin has been shown to help reduce the frequency of attacks in migraine sufferers by improving the energy metabolism within the brain and muscle cells.

 Not fattening! Only 172 calories per 1/4 cup dry (24 of the calories from protein and only 12 from sugars, the rest are complex carbohydrates, fiber and healthy fats).. 

Gluten-free. Since it is not not related to wheat, or even a grain, it is gluten-free.

Smart Carb: It is a complex carbohydrate with a low glycemic index, so it won’t spike your blood sugar.

Read more: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/8-health-benefits-of-quinoa.html#ixzz2TgjrnWJQ

This was a great breakfast (Healthy to boot!) to make and then reheat in the mornings. 

Another one of sweet friend Tonya's recipes at 4 little Fergusons. 

CHEESEY HAM & QUINOA BITES 

2 c. cooked quinoa

2 lg. eggs

1 c. shredded carrot or zucchini

2 green onions, thinly sliced

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 Tb. fresh cilantro or parsley, snipped

1/2 c. grated parmesan cheese

2 Tb. flour (I prefer white whole wheat)

generous amounts salt and pepper

1/2 c. finely diced ham
1/2 c. grated cheddar (or mozzarella) cheese, divided

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 

Mix together everything, using only 1/4 c. grated cheese to the mixture.  Divide between mini muffin tins, filling to the top. (about 1 heaping Tb. each), pressing firmly to fill. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the tops. (As you can tell from the photo, I only 'cheesed up' half of them.) Bake for 15-20 minutes.

Serve warm with salsa or ranch dressing. A great healthy way to begin the day. We really liked dipping them in Peppercorn Ranch. 

Linked to Weekend Potluck
        GBP Roundup - Breakfasts