Can we all just agree that Mondays are for SIMPLE? 

And for proving that you always have SOMETHING to make in that pantry of yours, even though there’s “nothing” to eat.

I had the same thought this morning.

Running around, trying to make my weird morning bevvie while trying to tie up my nikes over my leg warmers and answer emails with the other hand (?), but also wanting to make something warm and filling for a friend that I knew could use a little boost today.

15 mins on the clock, and I remembered this recipe- or a twist on it, from the #simplyrealhealthcookbook: the spinach, pea and parmesan quinoa bowls.

(+ arugula, + garlic olive oil + rotisserie chicken this time) .

All missions, accomplished. With a bonus of my dinner being already done too. And healthy and cozy and soo good on this chilly winter night.

That #simplyreallife peeps. It’s a thing. ✌?

And it doesn’t require hours out of your day, or expensive food or sacrificing taste or flavor just to be healthy. Just a reminder in case you needed it, like I did today. ?

Spinach, Pea + Parmesan Quinoa Bowls

Makes approximately 1 serving

Notes: Unsure about quinoa? Try this recipe. It’s my best take on a healthier mac n’ cheese. With veggies, of course. I love doubling or tripling this recipe and adding something new each time I eat it (adding broth for a soup, shredded chicken, turkey sausage, any leftover or extra veggies, hot sauce, a fried egg, etc are also great additions). For breakfast too!

¼ cup quinoa

½ cup water

2 handfuls spinach, or more (or arugula or chopped kale, or whatever you have)

¼ cup frozen peas

¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated (or 1-2 tablespoons butter or ghee)

sea salt and pepper to taste

Add quinoa, peas, a generous dash of sea salt, and water to a saucepan and bring to a boil. Once boiling, turn off heat and let sit for 10 minutes or until all the water is absorbed by the quinoa.

Add spinach and parmesan cheese to the pot of quinoa, and stir until the spinach wilts and cheese melts. Add more sea salt and pepper to taste.

Love this recipe? You’d love the cookbook then too. And be sure to check out the brand new Food Academy, now open for enrollment, and the seasonal meal plans!