Carrot Apple Quinoa Salad

In search for something light and easy to prepare for dinner tonight, I looked toward my huge jar of Quinoa (pronounced Keen-wah) sitting on the shelf. Quinoa is a nutritional athlete. Considered a "superfood" because it is one of the best vegetable sources of protein available, in fact, it is a complete protein! It has all the essential amino acids needed for a healthy body. A known prebiotic, it stimulates the growth of good bacteria in our guts, and for those who are watching gluten, Quinoa is gluten-free! One way to add it to your diet is to substitute it for traditional rice. If you are looking for a quick dinner but one that is nutrient-dense, try this salad!

Carrot Apple Quinoa Salad

1 cup quinoa

2 cups water

1 pat of butter

1 large carrot, diced

1 apple, diced

1/2 cup Brazil nuts, chopped (or any other nut)

1/4 parsley, chopped

1/8 cup lemon juice

1/4 olive oil

1 tsp garlic, minced

pepper and salt to taste (optional)

Place large stock pot on stove bring water and butter to boil. Upon boiling, lower heat and stir-in quinoa. Place lid on pot and let sit for 8-10 minutes till water is absorbed. Fluff with fork and place in a large serving bowl.

Add diced carrot, apple, nuts, and parsley to the salad. Toss.

In a small bowl mix lemon juice, olive oil, garlic and pepper and salt. Pour over the quinoa. Mix well.

That's it! Now you have a very easy, super nutritious and light dinner for any day of the week. This recipe is one you can throw together quickly and take with you to any potluck. Feel great, knowing that you gave your body a load of iron, magnesium, folate, zinc, niacin, riboflavin, thiamine and much more: the raw materials needed to maintain health and feel great!

Eat, drink and Be Happy,

From My DandelionHeart to Yours!