Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Quinoa Salad

If you've never heard of quinoa it's probably because it doesn't sound like it's spelled. It is pronounced Keen Wa. A whole grain packed full of nutrients and tons of protein, quinoa is perfect for anyone trying to eat a little healthier. It can be substituted in place of pasta or rice in many salad recipes with ease. Quinoa is actually a seed not a pasta, and when it is cooked the outer ring separates from the rest of the grain. It is very bland on it's own, so if eating it plain, you could cook it in low-sodium chicken/vegetable broth for more flavor. One thing to note is that uncooked quinoa has a bitter coating and should be rinsed thoroughly under cold water before cooking.

Quinoa & Vegetable Salad

by Mixed Salad Annie

1 cup uncooked quinoa
½ cup lightly steamed broccoli florets
½ cup lightly steamed green beans
½ jar pickled red beets, quartered
1 medium shallot, minced
1 celery stalk, sliced thin
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
Fresh black pepper and salt, or to taste
2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar, or to taste
1 Tablespoon olive oil to taste
Note: You could also use a bottled salad dressing in place of the oil and vinegar, such as Olde Cape Fat-Free Sesame Soy Ginger

Directions

Rinse quinoa under cold water for about 2 minutes. Place in 2 quart saucepan with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Allow to cool.

Mix together all the ingredients and your salad is ready!

10 comments:

  1. Anonymous9:25 AM

    Is new, is different is healthy colorful and tasty,thank you Annie bambola.

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  2. I recently started eating quinoa and find that its so versatile and tasty! I love it!

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  3. Looks delish Annie! We love Quinoa in our house too!!

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  4. This recipe looks unbelievable, I'm gonna try it really soon.
    I recently wrote an article on the health benefits of quinoa, check it out.
    http://www.theironyou.com/2011/03/more-on-quinoa.html

    Peace

    Mike @TheIronYou

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  5. It really does look mouth watering. I really like pastas, breads and salads a lot and its very healthy right. Thanks for posting.

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  6. Very colorful, hope its as good as looks

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  7. This is one of my fav recipes

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  8. I often add quinoa or bulgur, whether in mixed salads or in cooked vegetables. It's nourishing and tasty and always makes the difference, great!

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