Need an energy boost to make it through the rest of the week? Why not add a little whole grains into your diet?! They provide energy-revving fiber-packed carbohydrates. So for a real boost, at each meal, fill about one quarter of your plate with a whole grain item—this is really just ½ cup of whole grain—and for most people it’s all it takes to give you the energy boost that you need. But what is “whole grain”? Well, we’re glad you asked!

Whole grain products are products that are made from the whole kernels of cereal grains. When reading the ingredients on the nutrition facts label of foods, make sure the first ingredient says “whole grain.” If it doesn’t, you aren’t reaping the energizing benefits!

Although quinoa is not technically a grain, it has the same benefits plus extra protein and it’s one of our favorites, especially our Warm Pecan Edamame Quinoa Salad, yum!

Warm Pecan Edamame Quinoa Salad

Serves 4 (about 1-1/2 cup servings)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cup low sodium vegetable broth
• 3 cups of shelled edamame, cooked
• ¼ cup of chopped pecans
• 1 tablespoon of freshly grated orange zest
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of chopped, fresh tarragon

After roasting quinoa for about 5 minutes (it will crackle when its ready!), rinse well and set aside. Bring vegetable broth to a boil, add in quinoa, and allow the mixture to boil again. Reduce to a simmer and add cook for an additional 6-8 minutes. Add edamame and cook again for another 6-8 minutes, or until both the quinoa and edamame are tender. Drain remaining broth and mix in orange zest, lemon juice, oil, and tarragon. Top with pecans and enjoy!!

How do you incorporate whole grains into your diet?