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Kids Cooking Club

Quinoa. The new crouton?


Chef Mark's Tips of the Week

Activities to try with your kids this week

Meet Your Kid's New Favorite Salad Topper

My favorite salad is my kale Caesar salad. It’s one of the few foods I have never gotten tired of.

My kids ask for it constantly.

My students love it consistently.

One of the things that makes it so amazing is the “micro croutons.” I had been using toasted panko breadcrumbs for years, but then I started wondering if I could create a more nutrient-dense and gluten-free option.

Quinoa?

It had potential. A bunch of tiny grains that could stick to the dressing and add 100 micro crunches to each bite. But could they cook up crispy and not wet or mushy?

My first test came out better than I could have imagined. The texture was so light and crispy.

I tried it out with my own kids, then with my private lesson students, then with a big group of kids at a birthday party. EVERYONE loves it!!

Without further ado, I share the recipe with you.

Download Crispy Quinoa Recipe (PDF)

Action Steps

1. Print the recipe
2. Buy a bag of quinoa (best price is at Trader Joe's)
3. Watch the technique video on my YouTube channel 👇

video preview


Have your child participate to whatever degree you feel comfortable. Have them measure ingredients, taste anything they want, and let them stir!

If you don't already have a stainless skillet that you love, you can order my favorite by Made In Cookware here.

Much love,
Chef Mark

Kids Cooking Club

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