Quinoa-Almond Salad

Adding toasted nuts to grains such as quinoa really brings out the flavor. Quinoa is higher in unsaturated (good) fats and protein and lower in carbohydrates than most grains so there are many reasons to include it in a healthy diet.



Quinoa-Almond Salad

Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Servings: 6

1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup coarsely shredded carrot
1/4 sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup dried cherries or cranberries

Balsamic Vinaigrette:
2 T chopped parsley
1 1/2 T canola or soybean oil
2 T balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
dash of pepper

Heat quinoa, water and salt to boiling in 2 quart sauce pan, stirring once or twice, reduce heat to low.  Cover and simmer 12 to 15 minutes until tender.

Remove saucepan from heat, let stand 5 minutes.  Fluff quinoa with fork, let cool 15 minutes.  Meanwhile, make balsamic vinaigrette.

Mix vinaigrette, quinoa and other ingredients in large bowl.  Serve warm or cover and refrigerate about 4 hours until chilled. 

1 Serving:  190 calories; 7g fat

Source:  eatbetteramerica