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Quinoa is technically a seed, but is often categorized as a whole grain (it counts for whole grain week of the January Challenge!). This ancient grain made our recent list of 10 Foods that Fill You Up because it's high in protein (8 grams per serving) and fiber (5 grams per serving). Quinoa is one of my favorite grains because I love its nutty flavor and texture, but also because it cooks quickly (as opposed to wheat, rye and spelt berries, which I love but that take forever to cook).

If you've never cooked quinoa before, Giada DeLaurentiis' Herbed Quinoa is a good basic recipe to start with. It's a great side dish served with chicken, fish or pork, or add a scoop to mixed greens and a few toasted walnuts for a filling lunch salad.

Giada DeLaurentiis' Herbed Quinoa

Serves: 4

2 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken stock (substitute vegetable broth to make it vegetarian)

For the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, add the chicken stock, lemon juice and quinoa. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pan and cook until all the liquid is absorbed, about 12 to 15 minutes.

For the dressing: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, basil, parsley, thyme, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

Pour the dressing over the quinoa and toss until all the ingredients are coated. Transfer the quinoa to a bowl. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and serve.