While each new season brings many delicious things, there’s just no beating the bounty of summertime. From peak-season berries to juicy stone fruits to a dazzling array of leafy greens, summer’s freshest fruits and veggies offer a variety of colors, textures and nutrients. The superfoods of summer tend to work well together in dishes both savory and sweet – but we especially love them when paired with hearty and nutrient-dense quinoa. If you’re looking for fresh, new ways to combine our favorite gluten-free ancient grain with summer produce, look no further…
Peach Quinoa Pancakes with Maple Almond Butter, Edible Perspective for Ancient Harvest (pictured)
If breakfast is the most important meal of the day, why not make it a meal to look forward to? These flavorful and nutritious pancakes pack a punch of plant-based protein to start the day off right (thanks to our Ancient Harvest Quinoa Flakes) as well as the summertime sweetness of fresh, ripe peaches – which also happen to provide us with vitamin C and fiber.
Cherry Salad with Quinoa and Fennel, Naturally Ella
On those days when it’s just too hot to stay long in the kitchen, whip up this light and cool summer salad. It combines the sweet flavor and antioxidants of ripe cherries with the hearty nutrition of quinoa, the crisp crunch of shaved fennel, and a zesty honey-lemon vinaigrette.
Baked Spinach Quinoa Falafel Patties with Creamy Avocado Dressing, Fit and Frugal for Ancient Harvest
So the day’s cooled off enough to turn the oven on? Try turning these tasty patties into a satisfying plant-powered meal. Made with Ancient Harvest quinoa and a lovely combination of spices, they pair perfectly with the accompanying creamy avocado dressing – which adds rich texture and heart-healthy monounsaturated fat to the dish.
Quinoa and Chard Fresh Spring Rolls, Betsy Life
A fresh and beautiful alternative to a tortilla, Swiss chard is put to good use in this wonderful plant-based recipe. Reap the nutritional benefits of the leafy green (which include essential minerals like magnesium and potassium) while also enjoying a tasty filling of quinoa and other summer veggies. Quick tip: To make this gluten-free, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or Tamari.
Watermelon, Feta & Basil Quinoa, How Sweet Eats
The high water content in watermelon and other melons helps us stay hydrated in these hot summer months. Try this crunchy, sweet and savory salad for a refreshing twist on a classic that includes quinoa for added heft. It’s great as a side dish, but is satisfying enough to stand alone as a complete meal.
Quinoa, Mushroom and Kale-Stuffed Patty Pan Squash, Tasty Eats at Home
If you’re looking for a showstopper to serve company this summer, here it is. Colorful patty pan squash (those small summer squash that look like flying saucers) offer vitamin C and antioxidants, as well as a mild flavor and firm texture that make them perfect for stuffing. Here they’re hollowed out and filled with a delicious combination of quinoa, kale, mushrooms, onion, garlic and fresh parsley.
For even more delicious, gluten-free recipes that celebrate summer and the rest of the year, visit the recipes page at AncientHarvest.com.