Warm Quinoa Pudding

Is there such a thing as a healthy dessert? The answer is yes. Sweet treats don't have to be full of unhealthy ingredients. One thing we all should remember is that healthy eating is a gift, not a punishment. If you don't enjoy eating healthfully, you'll never stick to it. Try this delicious yet healthy dessert to see that even treats can fit into your cancer-fighting diet.

Quinoa is a whole grain used in Native American and South American cuisine. Look for quinoa in the health food, dry goods, pasta, or bulk foods area of your local grocery store.

Serves six as a dessert.

Ingredients

• 2 cups plain quinoa, dry and uncooked
• 4 cups water
• 1½ cups unsweetened (no-sugar-added) apple juice
• 1½ cups raisins
• 4 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

• Rinse and drain quinoa several times.
• Place quinoa in a large pan with water.
• Bring to a boil over high heat.
• Reduce heat, cover with lid, and allow to simmer until water is absorbed and quinoa is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This is usually about 15 minutes.
• Mix in apple juice, raisins, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Stir together.
• Cover pan and allow to simmer for 15 minutes longer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to pan.
• Stir in vanilla extract and serve warm.

Per serving: 346 calories; 70 grams of carbohydrates; 9 grams of protein; 3.3 grams of fat; 5 grams of fiber