1-1/2 cups quinoa, rinsed and well drained
3 cups water
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
1/4 cup lemon juice
4 garlic cloves, minced
6 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
6 tablespoons minced fresh mint
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 mini cucumbers, sliced
1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1. In a large saucepan, cook and stir quinoa over medium-high heat 3 to 5 minutes or until toasted. Add water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 12-15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Transfer to a large bowl. Cool slightly.
2. In a small bowl, whisk oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, mint and salt. Add vegetables to quinoa; drizzle with dressing and toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Toasting the grain before it simmers isn't essential, but it does add a pleasant nuttiness to the flavor of this vegan quinoa salad. Mix and match whatever fresh herbs and veggies you have on hand.
TOTAL TIME: Prep/Total Time: 30 min.
YIELD: 6 cups
Nutrition Facts
3/4 cup: 227 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 449mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch.