Quinoa, pronounced keen-wah, is considered "the supergrain of the future".

Actually, it's not a grain at all, but rather the seed of a leafy plant in the goosefoot family that's distantly related to spinach.

As a complete protein, quinoa contains all eight essential amino acids. It is also higher in unsaturated fats and lower in carbohydrates than most grains. 

Quinoa has a mild flavor with a unique crunch, is gluten-free and a good source of magnesium, copper and folate.

Glycemic Index = 53
Glycemic Load = 9 

Before cooking, rinse quinoa to remove its sap-like (saponin) coating. Store quinoa in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry place.