A Mac and Cheese Upgrade - What Did You Learn Today?

Growing up, my Gramma Hunter would regularly ask me the question; "what did you learn today?" I remember answering with things like fractions, cursive writing and the front crawl when I was younger. I also remember saying fractions because it was an easy answer but secretly knowing I'd already learned fractions months ago. I gave those answers because my Gramma would either sit there quietly until I answered or prompt me with a, "come on, surely you learned something today." What I didn't realize at the time is that as human beings, we learn something new every day. It isn't necessarily something obvious such as a concept like fractions or a skill like the front crawl. It can be a mix of flavours you'd never thought would work together, that lavender doesn't do well in super moist soil or that you can make a healthy quick and easy "mac and cheese" inspired meal with real food in 15 minutes or less!

Over the past 6 months I have been experimenting with what works to keep away my belly pain and bloating issues. I have had to let go of some easy prep favorites and learn to replace them with good for me alternatives. Mac and cheese, though not the healthiest option, sometimes hit the spot when I was feeling lazy in the kitchen and needed some comfort food. Unfortunately, that "comfort food" ended up causing me major discomfort. I came across a recipe for Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa on Arantha's Gourmet Beauty Blog and have officially adopted it as my mac and cheese upgrade. It's easy peasy and I honestly can't get enough of the stuff when I make it. The bonus; I don't have belly issues after eating it - success!

Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa

Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa, well rinsed
1 1/2 cups chicken broth, vegetable broth or water (I use chicken broth)
2 cups broccoli, chopped
1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
salt & pepper to taste

 

 

Directions:
Bring the quinoa, broth and broccoli to a boil over medium heat, reduce the heat and simmer covered until the broth has been absorbed and the quinoa is tender, about 13-17 minutes.
Mix in the cheese, let it melt and season with salt and pepper.

What I have realized since my Gramma has passed on is that not only do I learn something new everyday, but I thrive on learning new things. I have had many jobs in my short time in the working world but there was one constant that followed me through the various career changes; the moment I stopped learning was the moment I started looking for new work. I'm not sure if my Gramma intuitively knew this about me or if she was simply challenging me to use my mind in her own way. What I do know is that she was one wise woman and I miss her every day.

In honour of my Gramma Hunter; today I learned that 5 minutes spent near stagnant water equals 3 giant mosquito bite welts on my right butt cheek! Those sneaky bugs can smell my blood a mile away! What did you learn today?

Health and Happiness,

Lisa