Light and Easy Quinoa Salad

A girlfriend of mine mentioned craving quinoa salad lately. It's definitely not on my cravings list- but no judgements. And since it was her birthday this past weekend I figured I'd make her a batch of a quinoa salad I've made a dozen times. It's really simple, healthy and the flavors mesh really well together. I really do enjoy it. But I definitely don't crave it. Cheeseburgers- yes, quinoa- not so much.

So this is for you Jimena! Happy Birthday! 

Light and Easy Quinoa Salad 

Fridge:

1 red bell pepper, small dice (almost 1 cup) 

1/2 cup scallions, thinly chopped 

3 tbs italian parsley, minced

1 cup celery, small dice

Counter:

3 cups of water 

Juice of 1 lemon 

1/2 small red onion, minced (about 1/3 of a cup)

Pantry:

1 1/2 cups quinoa

1/4 tsp salt

Few cracks of black pepper

3 tbs olive oil 

3/4 cup of dried cranberries (optional)

Tools:

Medium pot with lid 

Medium mixing bowl

Small mixing bowl 

Fork or whisk 

Mixing spoon

Cutting board

Chopping knife 

Measuring cups/spoons

Bring the 3 cups of water to a boil with a large pinch of salt in it. Once boiling, add the quinoa and turn heat down to low. Put a lid on it and allow to simmer and steam until all the water is absorbed. Remove the lid and fluff with a fork. Allow to sit for 5 minutes for steam to release. Then transfer to the medium mixing bowl and place in fridge for 15 minutes to cool or leave it on the counter until cooled. I usually make my quinoa the night before and leave it in the fridge until I'm ready to use. 

Once cooled, add the red peppers, celery, italian parsley, red onion, scallions and dried cranberries if you're using. I usually do use them but I was serving this salad with a fish dish so decided to leave it out. Sprinkle half of the salt and pepper over the quinoa and ingredients and mix well. 

Take the remaining salt and pepper and add to the small mixing bowl. Add the lemon juice and olive oil and whisk to combine. Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad. Mix well. 

Refrigerate until read to serve. Or just eat right away. It's delicious! Enjoy! Xo