If you think quinoa is only good for savory salads and pilafs, you're missing out. Pair it with steel-cut oats to amplify its hearty flavor. A little maple syrup brings out its sweet side.

Yield: Makes 4 servings

1/2 cup dried fruit (such as goji berries, cranberries, or barberries)
1/2 cup steel-cut oats
1/2 cup well-rinsed quinoa
1/4 cup raisins
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoons ground cardamom
Milk
Maple syrup
Toasted shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
Toasted walnuts

Bring 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as goji berries, cranberries, or barberries), 1/2 cup steel-cut oats, 1/2 cup well-rinsed quinoa, 1/4 cup raisins, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoons ground cardamom, and 4 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Cover and let sit off heat overnight. (Alternatively, bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until grains are tender, 20-25 minutes.)

Before serving, reheat cereal in saucepan, covered, over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding water if needed, until warmed through, 5-8 minutes. Serve with milk, maple syrup, toasted shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas), and toasted walnuts.