Quinoa Stuffed Mushrooms

These bite sized appetizers are easy to handoe and work well for parties of any size.

Serves 6

 1/4         cup quinoa

10 to 12  white or cremini mushrooms, washed and clean

2              Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1              Tbsp finely minced garlic

1/3           cup chopped leek, white part only 

1/4           cup low sodium chicken or  vegetable broth

1 to 2       Tbsp toasted, finely chopped walnets

2              Tbsp fresh Itlalian flat parsley, chopped

Sea salt to taste 

Preheat oven to 425. Rinse quinoa with cool water in a fine mesh stainer for 2 minutes until water runs clear, this removes any debris as well as the bitter coating on the quinoa. 

Seperate mushroom caps from the stems. Finely chop stems, measuring out a generous 1/3 cup of chopped stems to set aside. Brush mushroom caps inside and out with 1 tablespoon of oil. Arrange caps open side up on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.

Heat remaining oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, lek, and reserved muchroom stems, sauteing until fragrant and tender, about 3 to 4 mintues. Stir in quinoa and broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until all liquid i sabsorbed and quinoa is tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, walnuts, and parsley. Season to taste with salt.

Using a teaspoon, pack stuffing inside mushroom caps, mounding high. Roast until filled mushrooms are hot and fork tender, about 10 minutes. Serve hot or at room temperature.