Buckwheat salads can be a tasty addition to any plate.

They are so easy to make, but many people in the United States are unfamiliar with this ancient grain.  Buckwheat certain deserves to be called an “ancient” grain.  Humans have been growing it for food for over 8,000 years!

It’s a staple of many cuisines and is commonly used from southeastern Asia through eastern Europe.

Buckwheat is gluten free!

Despite “wheat” being part of its name, buckwheat is a gluten-free grain.

Its high fiber content (4.5 grams in one cooked cup) makes it wonderful for your health and the health of your gut microbiome.   Despite this, it is a low FODMAP grain.  This is one of the reasons I recommend it so highly to people who see me for help in dealing with digestive issues including celiac disease, gluten intolerance, sensitivity to wheat, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Buckwheat is a whole grain and a complete protein

Unlike some whole grains, buckwheat has all 9 of the essential amino acids.  These are the amino acids that your body is not capable of making, so you must get them from the foods you eat.  If you’re trying to eat more of a plant-based diet, incorporating buckwheat is one step you may want to consider.

In addition to tasting good buckwheat groats are exceptionally nutritious.  One cup of cooked buckwheat groats has 6 grams of protein.  That’s the same as a whole egg! It’s slightly less than the 8 grams available from a cup of cooked quinoa, but it also has fewer calories.  One cup of cooked buckwheat groats has 155 calories compared to the 222 calories found in a cup of cooked quinoa.

Making friends with buckwheat

I covered how to cook buckwheat in another post, so let’s get onto one of the easiest ways to enjoy this delightful grain: a buckwheat salad!

Recipe for buckwheat salad with chickpeas and red peppers

By Lisa Garcia, registered dietitian nutritionist

I’ll make up a batch of this salad and then use it as part of several meals during the week.  I may have it on a bed of fresh greens or serve it as a side dish.  One of my favorite ways is to use it for lunch along with some leftover protein from the night before.

Ingredients
2 cups cooked and rinsed buckwheat groats
1.5 cups chickpeas (cooked)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
1 cup diced red pepper
1.5 cups diced cucumber
1/4 cup scallions
Salt and pepper to taste

Bring buckwheat and chickpeas to at least room temperature by briefly microwaving if they have been chilled. (This will help the oil and vinegar to absorb better.)

Add oil and vinegar.

Add remaining ingredients and toss. Serve or chill.

The nutrient facts shown below are calculated using canned beans, but you could cook your own beans.  Wondering which is best for you?  Read my post and find out!

Nutrition facts:

Serving size: 4 servings of ~ 1.5 cups
Calories: 212
Carbohydrates: 35 grams
Protein: 8 grams
Fiber: 6 grams
Saturated fat: 1 gram
Sodium: 246 miligrams