Monday, April 28, 2014
Did you know that quinoa is one of the most protein-rich foods we can eat. It is a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids? There are so many health benefits to this supergrain. Quinoa also contains almost twice as much fiber as most other grains and is rich in iron, lysine, magnesium, riboflavin, and maganese. There are many ways to prepare quinoa and one of our favorites is as a salad. Here is a wonderful recipe from our friend over at Your Modern Family. This Chilled Southwestern Quinoa Salad is the perfect addition to any meal or simply be itself...enjoy!
Chilled Southwest Quinoa Salad
Exchanges: 2 Starch, 1 Vegetable, and 1 Fat
Ingredients:
1 cup dry quinoa
2 cups water
1 (15 oz.) can black beans
1 (15 oz.) can reduced sodium whole kernel corn
1 large orange bell pepper, chopped
1/2 pint grape tomatoes sliced (I omitted these)
1 c scallions, sliced
1 c fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 c extra virgin olive oil
juice of 1 large lime (2 T “Real Lime”)
1 t pepper
2 t garlic powder
1 T chili powder
Directions:
Cook quinoa as directed on package. Once the quinoa is completely cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside to cool.
Drain the black beans and the corn in a colander and rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Pat dry with a paper towel, and pour the beans and corn into a large bowl.
Add chopped orange bell pepper, sliced grape tomatoes, sliced scallions, and chopped cilantro.
southwestern quinoa salad
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder.
Pour the dressing over the salad, and toss well.
Add the cooled quinoa to the salad and toss well, making sure that the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
Season to taste with additional black pepper, garlic powder, or chili powder.
Refrigerate and serve chilled.
Source: http://www.yourmodernfamily.com/southwestern-quinoa-salad/