Rinse 1/2 cup quinoa in a fine mesh sieve.
Place quinoa, 1 cup almond milk, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, 1/2 teaspoon cardamon and a pinch of salt in a small sauce pan.
Bring to boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat, let stand covered for 5 minutes, fluff with a fork.
Serve with 1/2 cup almond milk, half chopped pear and some toasted almonds.