Total time: 26 min • Prep: 6 min • Cook: 10 min • Serves: 6 • Difficulty: Easy

Quinoa has risen to star power. High in protein and fiber, it has a nutty flavor and invitingly chewy texture. We love using it in the place of any grain. Because its natural outer coating has a bitter flavor, always rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear unless it says "prerinsed" on the package. In this recipe, the quinoa is complemented with white wine vinegar, olive oil, lots of fresh parsley, and toasted pine nuts. It's great as a side dish to any entrée, or you can serve on its own with a simply dressed salad alongside.