what is in quinoa
1 Quinoa is 100% whole grain and is close to being a perfect food source in the balance of nutrition it provides. 2  Technically it's not a grain but the seed of a leafy plant related to spinach. 3  Quinoa is an excellent source of protein - 12% to 18%. Quinoa can be substituted for almost any other grain. 2  Quinoa has a nutty, smoky flavor and is less filling than other grains and pastas. 3  Quinoa has been one of the primary foods of the Inca Indians for more than 5,000 years.