Top 10 Quinoa Products

This silky-smooth chocolate bar hits all of the right sweet and salty notes—the quinoa is puffed for a little crunch and the sesame seeds add a subtle toastiness that pairs very well with the agave. Though it’s on the pricey end, this creative chocolate combo is highly recommended for those who crave something unusual. $8 for 3 oz; jcocochocolate.com.

Released in 2011, this American whiskey is distilled from red and white quinoa and malted barley. The grains lend an unexpected nuttiness to this spirit that definitely makes it worth a taste. $50 for 750 ml; binnys.com.

Made from quinoa that has been rolled flat and toasted, this product is almost as versatile as the grain itself. Use as a gluten-free breading for chicken or mix into baked goods for some added protein. $5 for 11 oz; vitacost.com.

As someone who thinks that most “healthy” chips taste like cardboard, I was impressed with the snackability of these all-natural baked quinoa chips. Light, salty, crispy—this snack comes highly recommended. Available in sea salt, sour cream–and-onion, cheddar and barbeque. $2.50 to $3.50 for 3.5 oz; simply7snacks.com.

If you have been living under a rock for the past few years and are new to the grain (or just can’t get enough of it), then you must try the organic, fair-trade quinoa from Alter Eco. The company is not only intent on delivering the best product to its customers, it also focuses on improving the quality of life of the people who farmed the ingredients. I promise you will taste the difference. $7 for 1 lb; shop.alterecofoods.com.

This breakfast must-have combines whole-grain quinoa, light coconut milk, real fruit and natural sweeteners to create a protein-packed, gluten-free cereal. Flavor choices include banana-cinnamon, wild blueberry, honey-almond and orange-cranberry. $21 for 6 packages; shop.cocomamafoods.com.

The candy bars of childhood get a new look from Hu Kitchen with this all-natural, dairy-free treat, consisting of a delicate chocolate shell filled with creamy, salty almond butter, with added crunch from puffed organic quinoa. $8 for 2.1 oz; mouth.com.

A surprisingly fresh and imaginative packaged food made with certified organic quinoa. The hearty grain sides come in flavors such as miso with edamame and scallions, and Indian coconut curry. Prepare it on the stovetop, in the microwave or in a rice cooker. $3.50 for 4 oz; worldmarket.com and grocery stores nationwide.

In addition to protein-packed quinoa, these small-batch energy bars are made from wholesome ingredients that are natural energy sources. Each cookie-like bar is full of nuts, fruits, seeds, grains and rich almond butter. Wheat-free and vegan, they are perfect for anyone on the go. $21 for twelve 2 oz bars; store.earnesteats.com.

One of our favorite gluten-free pastas, this quinoa fusilli will satisfy any pasta lover, and has the added benefit of quinoa’s high protein content. $5 for 8 oz; adreamshopping.com.

For light, fluffy quinoa, cook it like pasta. Each batch of quinoa can be different—instead of worrying about having the right amount of liquid, simmer the quinoa in a large pot of water until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain it thoroughly and then return the quinoa to the hot pot. Cover it and let it steam for about 15 minutes until the remaining moisture has been absorbed by the grain. Fluff with a fork and serve.

Step up your garnish game and try this recipe for quinoa crispies. This is the perfect added texture for roasted vegetables, salads, pureed soups or even just crunchy snacking.