first image

Hi.

Welcome to This Awful/Awesome Life! My name is Frances Joyce. I am the publisher and editor of this magazine. We'll be exploring different topics each month to inform, entertain and inspire you. Meet new authors, sharpen your brain and pick up a few tips on life, love, entertaining and business. Enjoy and please share!

April 2026 in the Twelve Months of Grain - Spinach Mushroom Quinoa by Fran Joyce

Whether you are interested in trying new foods, have incorporated meatless days into your diet, or you follow a plant-based diet, quinoa is a great grain to try. We found a delicious recipe for Spinach Mushroom Quinoa.

Here is the link, Spinach Mushroom Quinoa Skillet Recipe – Healthy Meatless Dinner | Eatwell101

Quinoa is an edible seed that has been cultivated for about 5,000 years. It is indigenous to the Andean region of South America, specifically Chile, Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. There are more than 120 varieties of quinoa. The seeds can be white, black, red, or yellow. Although it is technically a seed, Quinoa is classified as a whole grain. It’s naturally gluten-free and is a good source of plant protein and fiber. It’s considered a complete protein because it contains all nine essential amino acids that the human body can’t make on its own.

Quinoa is an excellent source of manganese, magnesium, folate, phosphorus, and thiamin (Vitamin B1). One cup of cooked quinoa provides about 5 grams of fiber and 8 grams of protein. 

This recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients. I followed the recipe exactly, and It was delicious.

The next time I make it, I will add zucchini and carrots. Also, I will top it with chives or green onions in addition to the Parmesan cheese and cracked pepper flakes.

Source for nutritional information:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/quinoa

 

Grains in the Twelve Months of Grain:

January – White Rice – Stuffed peppers (my own recipe – check our January 2026 issue)

February – Teff – Spicy Chocolate Pudding – www.teffoo.com

March – Oats - https://www.bigoven.com/recipe/oatmeal-apple-carrot-cake-no-flour/3117668

April -  Spinach Mushroom Quinoa Skillet Recipe – Healthy Meatless Dinner | Eatwell101 

Artist Page

The April 2026 Quiz "Let's Talk About the Weather" by Fran Joyce