Quinoa and Kale Soup

Everyone who knows me, knows how much I love quinoa. Here is my one of my favourite recipes for a quinoa soup to keep you healthy and warm this season. 

Ingredients

• 1 sweet onion - medium diced
• 2 celery stalks - medium diced
• 3 carrots - medium diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil - or enough to cover the bottom of the pot
• 2 cloves garlic - finely chopped
• 2 cups fresh zucchini - medium diced (about 1 medium or 2 small
• 1 bell pepper - medium diced
• 4 cups of water
• 1 15-ounce can of chickpeas or any beans of your choice ( they are high in fibre)
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups kale - stems removed
• 1 teaspoon turmeric (or to taste)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. I place a large stockpot over medium heat and add the onions, carrots and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes or until softened.
2. Then I add my garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes and cook for about one minute or until garlic begins to color.
3. Add the zucchini and the green beans, season with salt and pepper, add the turmeric, stir and cook for about 3 minutes.
4. I usually lower the heat to medium/low and  the soup to gently boil (uncovered) for about 20 minutes.
5. Add the quinoa and cover for 15 minutes.
6. Remove the cover, add the kale and the canned beans (more water if needed) bring back to a gentle boil and cook for another 5 minutes or just until the kale is tender.