Happy Father's Day and Quinoa

Have you heard of Quinoa? You can find it at all health food stores and some grocery stores. Look for it where you find rice and dried beans. 

It is being billed as a Super Food.

It is amazingly high in protein and packs 9 essential amino acids. If you are a vegetarian or are trying to limit your meat intake, I highly recommend you try Quinoa. 

I make this refreshing salad with toasted Quinoa. It's simple, tasty and oh so good for you.

Healthy eating is my special Father's Day gift to The Best Husband In The World, even though he's not my dad, he is a great dad to our children. 

Toasted Quinoa Salad:

1 cup Quinoa, toasted (directions below)

2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 carrot, chopped

3 scallions, chopped with some green tops

1 small bunch cilantro

1/4 cup fat free feta cheese crumbles

1 lemon, juiced

optional, dried cranberries

Toasting the Quinoa is not necessary, but will give it a slightly more nutty taste. 

Toast the Quinoa by placing in bottom of a dry skillet over low heat. Stir and toast for 3-5 minutes until Quinoa is golden.

Cook Quinoa according to package directions. Typically, like you would cook rice. 1 cup Quinoa to 2 cups water. Bring water to boil, add Quinoa, cover and simmer until water is absorbed. About 15 minutes. Uncover, fluff with fork and cool. 

Mix cooled Quinoa with chopped vegetables and cilantro. 

Whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour over Quinoa mixture and toss.

Stir in Feta and optional dried cranberries. 

Serve chilled. 

Cheers to you (and your's) health! Happy Father's Day honey.