Mediterranean Quinoa

 

Quinoa is a complete protein that contains all nine essential amino acids. It is a gluten free grain-like seed full of fiber, protein, and many other helpful minerals. Plus, you can cook it relatively fast which is always nice. I have been making a lot of quinoa lately for those reasons! This dish is full of Mediterranean flavors and is delicious warm or cold. Enjoy!

Mediterranean Quinoa

2 cups water

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

1 cucumber, peeled seeded and chopped

2 medium tomatoes, chopped

1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped

1/2 cup kalamata olives, chopped

(Dressing)

1/3 cup EVOO

2 T balsamic vinegar

zest and juice of one lemon
1/2 T pure maple syrup

1 garlic clove

1/2 t Himalayan salt

1/4 t freshly cracked pepper

1 t Tuscan seasoning (or Italian seasoning)

Bring the water and quinoa to a boil in a pot.  Turn heat down and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until quinoa is soft and all liquid is absorbed. In the meantime chop all veggies and add to large bowl. Mix dressing ingredients in Vitamix until blended well.  Add the dressing and quinoa to bowl and mix well. You can serve warm or cool in fridge and serve cold.