“The mother of all Grains”, as the Incan’s referred to what we presently know as Quinoa (keen-wah…I’m sure there are some out there scratching their head on how to pronounce that) is a powerhouse of protein. It is a great breakfast food in place of oatmeal with fruit, honey and sugar (seriously delicious, especially before hitting the gym).

I discovered Quinoa in 2009 (I know it was 2009 because we moved to Hawaii that year, I associate learning new things with where I learned them) while I was cooking and baking my way through Veganomicon. My kids were a little hesitant to eat it at first, but I believe if I try to cook an ingredient in many different ways, eventually they will like it, so far it has worked.

When Lindsay at Love & Olive Oil posted a recipe for Quinoa Cakes with Lemon, Olive and Parsley, I had to try it. Quinoa cake = Genius.

They were awesome. We had them for dinner with Chicken Milanese and they were a huge hit with kids and husband alike. Next time I think I’ll make a greek yogurt type dip for them to keep my kids a little bit more interested in what was on their plate (and I think the nice ‘cool’ yogurt taste would really compliment them).

This weeks Link Up Thursday with Goodnight-Moon I have picked Mumford & Sons “Hold On To What You Believe”. While not a very visually appealing video, I really love the song.

“But hold on to what you believe, in the light

When the darkness has robbed you of all your sight”

I seriously love everything they sing. Every single thing. Sigh No More was my favorite album of 2011 and continues to be in 2012. I can’t wait to hear their new stuff.

Okay…and Lover of the Light.

Happy Thursday everyone! (Please leave me a comment/Facebook note/Tweet promising you’ll get up and dance around your houses/kitchens/bedrooms today. Dancing around is seriously awesome and gets everyone in a great mood, it works in our house).