Quinoa with Artichoke Orzo

My sister introduced me to the virtues of Quinoa when she went vegan during her months of pre-nursing classes and nutrition courses. 

Photo Credit: Flickr Mary Thompson Quinoa

Quinoa with Artichokes and Orzo
8 oz orzo pasta
10 oz quinoa
6 oz canned artichoke hearts
3 TB olive oil
1 tsp butter (optional)
3 TB parmesan cheese (optional)
4 cups of water

Photo Credit: Flickr Foodista Blog Orzo with Chicken

1/2 tsp condensed chicken bullion (optional)

Step 1: Rinse the quinoa three times in clean, cold water before boiling according to package directions.
Step 2: In a skillet, brown the dry orzo pasta in butter and olive oil as if you are making pilaf.

Photo Credit: Flickr Adactio Artichokes

Step 3: Add the water, bullion, drained quinoa and artichoke hearts. Cover with lid and simmer for 17 minutes.

Serve with lean protein such as fish or poultry. Add capers if you'd like.

Bon Apetit!