Quinoa is has been gaining popularity for its many health benefits. The bead-shaped grain crop, which has a nutty flavor, is filled with protein, fiber, minerals, and is not loaded with gluten. Check out quinoa's proven health benefits here.

Quinoa contains all eight of the essential amino acids, BBC Good Food wrote. The United Nations recognized it as a supercrop for its beneficial factors, such as dietary fiber, phosphorus, iron, and magnesium. Plus, quinoa is easy to digest.

Quinoa is regarded as a versatile ingredient. It can be made as a side dish, or it can be added to soups, stews, and main dishes for added flavor. Not only that, the grain can be cooked with a special Latin American tweak.

Here are five of some of quinoa recipes with a Latin twist, as compiled by The Latin Kitchen.

Cherry Almond Quinoa Smoothie

This quick and easy smoothie recipe can attract young kids, too. The Cherry Almond Quinoa Smoothie recipe mixes protein-rich quinoa, crunchy almond butter, and tart cherries into a glass of goodness.

Check out the complete recipe here.

Baked Quinoa Empanadas

Quinoa is the latest addition to the ingredients that can be put inside empanadas. For this recipe, which originated from northern Argentina, the quinoa is mixed with goat cheese and olives to whip up a delicious filling that is meat-free.

You can view the complete recipe here.

Quinoa con Leche (Coconut and Pineapple Quinoa Pudding)

Quinoa can also be made into a dessert. For this recipe, you only need to combine rice pudding with tropical coconut milk and pineapple. This sweet creation boasts of a different texture than what most people have grown accustomed to. Not only is it delicious, the dish is also a healthy alternative to rice.

Get the full recipe here.

Lemon Garbanzo Quinoa Salad

A serving of Lemon Garbanzo Quinoa Salad is guaranteed to provide a double protein boost. The combination of chickpeas and quinoa delivers fiber and protein while cucumber, red onion, and a dusting of cheese add more balance to the meal's flavor.

Check out the complete recipe for this dish here.

Milanesa de Quinoa (Quinoa Milanesa)

Milanesa is a breaded meat fillet dish popular in South American countries. If you are a huge fan of the crispy crunch of milanesa but is still trying to consume more whole grains, this recipe is for you.

Instead of a traditional thinly sliced meat, the patties for this dish are made from quinoa, meaty portobello mushrooms, and a hint of sweet carrot. The meal is prepared by pan fried or baked.

For instructions on how to cook the dish, check this out.