Canadian Quinoa Salad

prep time:: 15 minutes
total time:: 40 minutes

Makes 6 servings

Quinoa is considered by many the “perfect protien”, but don’t let its ultra healthy schtick deter you...this salad will make you a lover of healthy eating!

ingredients

2 1/2 cups water
1/8 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups Quinoa, rinsed and drained
2 tsp Olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
3/4 cup chopped pitted dates
1/2 cup creamy feta cheese (block, not crumbled)
1/2 cup slivered, toasted almonds
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives
2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Honey Lemon Dressing:
3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp. liquid honey
1 Tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper

directions

1
Combine water and salt in large saucepan. Bring to a boil. Add quinoa. Stir.. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered for about 20 minutes, until quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool.
2
Heat olive oil in a small frying pan on medium heat. Add celery and onion. Sauté for 5-10 minutes, stirring often, until onion is soft. Add to quinoa. Allow to cool.
3
Add next 5 ingredients. Mix.
4
Honey Lemon Dressing. Combine all 5 ingredients in a small cup. Drizzle over quinoa mixture. Toss until all ingredients are coated.

Source: Company's Coming Whole Grain Recipes, 2007