Lemon Quinoa Salad

You've probably heard about the numerous health benefits of the "Gold of the Incas". Quinoa (pronounced as keen-wa) is packed with protein, amino acids and essential nutrients. With every 1/2 cup serving of dry quinoa, you get about 11 grams of high quality protein. Lots of protein but fewer calories! No wonder it has been a staple for every weight watcher.

What I love about quinoa is its light, fluffy texture and delicious, nutty taste. It's so versatile that you can have it any time of the day. The best part is you can mix it with almost anything and everything.

Having a meatless day will help cleanse your system and what a better way to enjoy quinoa than making a salad out of it!

Lemon Quinoa Salad

1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
11/2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
3 cups water or chicken stock
1 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/4 tsp. paprika
Zest and juice from one lemon
1 Can garbanzo beans
1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
1/2 bunch scallions, white and light green tops only, finely chopped
1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
1 1/2 tbsp. fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 1/2 tbsp. fresh parsley, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

1.) Saute onion and bell pepper in olive oil until cooked. Add garlic and heat until fragrant for about 30 seconds. Add quinoa to onion mixture and stir around and toast for about 2 minutes. Add water or chicken broth, a large pinch of salt and spices. Bring to a boil. Lower heat, cover and let simmer for 20 minutes. Quinoa is done when it doubles in size, becomes slightly translucent and spirals appear on each grain.

2.) Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, garbanzo beans, tomatoes, scallions, almonds and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper.