Healthy and Different: Peruvian Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is an uncommon whole grain that has the highest nutritional profile of all other grains, containing the essential amino acids and lots of B vitamins. This one-of-a-kind grain is also easy to digest and naturally gluten free. Aside from all the health benefits, quinoa also cooks the fastest compared to other grains, making it great for quick meals on-the-go.

During your next picnic or potluck, swap out the typical pasta salad and bring this delicious Peruvian Quinoa Salad instead. It’s not only cool and refreshing, but it will keep your friends coming back fo rseconds.

Ingredients:

Salad:

• 1 cup dry quinoa
• ½ cup red peppers, diced
• ½ cup red onion, diced
• 1 bunch parsley, chopped
• 1 cucumber, diced
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup pine nuts

Dressing

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon Maple Syrup
• 1 ½ squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1.) Prepare quinoa as directed. Let cool.

2.) Toast pine nuts with a little olive oil on light heat forabout 5-10 minutes. Let cool.

3.) Dice and prepare vegetables.

4.) Prepare dressing by adding all ingredients and mixing.

5.) Combine quinoa, vegetables, pine nuts, and dressing and toss.

6.) Refrigerate for up to 2 hours before eating. Enjoy!