9 tasty (and nutritious) recipes using whole grains

A comforting dish, polenta cooks up in a flash and its creaminess mellows the robust flavors of kale. Kids will have fun stirring the polenta and watching it thicken before their eyes!

Get the recipe for Tuscan Polenta with Rosemary, Kale and Cannellini Beans

Surprise! Quinoa (and most whole grains) freeze very well once cooked. Make an extra batch one night and stash the rest in the freezer, thawing as needed to throw these cakes together.

Get the recipe for Quinoa Salmon Cakes with Dill and Fennel

Since both chicken thighs and farro, the rustic Italian grain, require a long, slow simmer to get tender, why not match them up in this one-pot meal? If you can’t find ras el hanout in your supermarket spice aisle, don’t worry — just make your own with spices you probably have on hand.

Get the recipe for Moroccan-Spiced Stew with Braised Chicken Thighs, Tomatoes and Farro

Kids bored by traditional between-the-bread sandwiches will flip for these fun-to-make rollups. Subbing in hearty buckwheat for white flour in the crêpe batter helps fill little bellies at breakfast or lunch.

Get the recipe for Buckwheat Crêpes with Ham and Cheese

Despite what you’ve heard, it’s not necessary to stir risotto constantly for a successful dish. The key is adding the broth slowly for the rice to absorb, mingling the grains’ starch with the liquid for a superbly creamy sauce. Get the same effect with a hearty wild rice blend.

The classic pilaf gets a peppy crunch from celery and almonds and a smoky hint of heat from Spanish paprika. Forget mushy and bland; this is a side dish that can stand on its own for a full meal.

Get the recipe for Bulgur Pilaf with Peas and Almonds

It’s a main course and side dish all in one crispy-skinned package! The classic technique of slipping stuffing under the chicken skin keeps the meat moist and infuses each bite with flavour.

Get the recipe for Quinoa, Feta, and Spinach-Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Millet has a slight natural sweetness that makes it a perfect partner for maple syrup in a hot and creamy breakfast dish. Pair the porridge with fresh or dried fruit to add an extra punch of flavour.

Get the recipe for Breakfast Millet Porridge