Grains sometimes get a bad reputation because of they are rich in carbohydrates. Grains not only provide carbohydrates but much needed fiber and vitamins to keep your body healthy. Whole grains provide more fiber and vitamins than refined grains and are part of a healthy diet.
The rice and pasta aisles are so long in the grocery stores now. I enjoy trying out different varieties. But there are some that I find myself gravitating to often. All the grains are so versatile. You can add sauces to them to make a pasta dish. I will cook rice or quinoa in broth and then mix in some veggies for a nice pilaf. I can even chill cooked grains and add them to salads or make them the foundation of a good salad.
There's just so much you can do with grains but here are a few that I use most often.
White and Brown Rice
Quinoa
Oatmeal
Popcorn
Pasta
Now that I have an Instant Pot and I can have my rice come out yummy without all the fuss, I'm really into serving rice more often. Before the pot, I was only into brown rice because it could handle my mis-cooking better. But now all I have to do is all ingredients and flavor. Have you ever tried coconut rice? It's quite delicious.
Oatmeal is a go-to meal prep item for me. When I meal prep and start the day off with a hearty bowl of oatmeal, I feel more accomplished. I know that I've gotten in some fiber and nutrients and protein. I'm starting my day off right and it helps me to make healthy decisions throughout my day.
Quinoa is easy to cook but doesn't have a lot of flavor on it's own. I always cook quinoa in a broth so that flavor is found in every bite.
Popcorn is such a versatile snack. It's a blank canvas. I can eat it plan with a touch of butter or dress it up with parmesan cheese and rosemary or Old Bay seasoning or cayenne and chocolate. The combinations can just keep going.
Because of the versatility of these grains, it's easy to have these items on hand all the time so I'm not turning in circles in my kitchen asking what's for dinner.