Quinoa Salad

IMG_5070With football season upon us, I’ve been thinking about fun snacks, appetizers and crowd pleasers to make when hosting friends at the house. I recently tried this quinoa salad that is oh-so scrumptious and chock-full of nutrition. While pigs-in-a-blanket and wings are food staples for football watching, this quinoa salad serves as a healthy option to offset some of the other must-have indulgences. The result is a guilt-free and balanced football-watching menu your guests will enjoy!

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Quinoa is such an underrated grain, and one I’ve been trying to incorporate more into meal-making. A mere cup can go a long way, and feed lots of hungry bellies. Below you’ll find the easy-peasy recipe for this salad. And feel free to supplement or swap any of the veggies to your liking. The sky is the limit!  For a heartier version add grilled chicken or avocado.

Ingredients:

  • Quinoa 
  • Cucumber
  • Tomato
  • Grilled corn
  • Feta cheese
  • Cilantro
  • Olive oil
  • Salt & Pepper 

Directions:

  • Rinse 1 cup of quinoa
  • Place quinoa in 2 cups of water and bring to a boil for about 5 minutes
  • Add a bouillon cube to the water for flavor or add a pinch of sea salt (optional)
  • Reduce heat to a simmer and cover for about 10-15 minutes until all the water is absorbed
  • Let quinoa cool and then top with ingredients of choice 
  • Serve cold with a drizzle of olive oil and garnish with cilantro
  • Pour a glass of wine, and enjoy!

Bon appetite!