"The Mini Herd"

Saturday was the day Kudzu arrived. He's so cute and the 3 alpacas have bonded. Henri seems more attentive while Raoul just stands around eating and watching.
I just love watching them and with Kudzu's arrival it feels more like a group or "Mini herd". It's how it should be as these wonderful animals are herd animals.
The millet I planted for them last week has sprouted and there is a nice green glow on the front pasture...
The alpaca mulch I have been using seems to be doing a fine job on the tomato plants. I'm continuing to add soil conditioner to plants that haven't received it and am anxiously waiting for summer garden goodness.
I grow sprouts year round and am always looking for more ways to use them... Tonight I'm trying this recipe from Vegetarian Times (MAY/June): They say it's a French food craze - these little glasses with layered ingredients calling them Verrines....

Quinoa - Avocado Verrines

1/3 cup quinoa
1/2 tsp chili powder - divided
3 tsp lime juice
2 tsp olive oil
1 ripe avocado
2 -3 drops Tabasco sauce ( I'm using Texas Pete!)
1/3 cup sprouts

1- bring quinoa 1/4 tsp chili powder and 1 cup water to a boil, cover reduce heat to med low and simmer 12 - 15 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed
2- whisk together 2 tsp lime juice, oil and remaining chili powder. Add quinoa and toss to coat, Season with salt and pepper.
3- divide quinoa among small glasses, dice avocado season with salt and pepper and toss with Tabasco sauce and remaining lime juice. Divide avocado among glasses and top with sprouts -
serve immediately for a nice light first course or appetizer!