Quinoa in a zesty vinaigrette that works as a main course or a side dish. A favorite to make ahead for a potluck.
Course Grain, Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Ingredients
1cupquinoasee note on rinsing quinoa
1 ½cupswater
¼cupextra-virgin olive oil
2limesjuicedapproximately ¼ cup juice
1tablespooncumin
1teaspoonsalt
½teaspoon red pepper flakesoptional - add more or less depending on desired heat
2cups cherry tomatoes halved
2cupscucumber sliced and quartered
115 ozcan of black beans
1cup chopped celeryoptional
5green onions, thinly sliced
¼cupCilantroOk to substitute with parsley if cilantro is not your jam
salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Bring quinoa, water, and a pinch of salt to a boil in a saucepan. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until quinoa is tender and water has been absorbed. Set aside to cool. Want to cook the quinoa in your instant pot, here is how.
Once cool, in a large bowl combine quinoa, tomatoes, black beans, celery, and green onions.
Whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper flakes if using. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss gently to mix. Gently stir in the cilantro (or parsley).
Either serve immediately or cover and chill in the fridge until ready to serve. Can make 1 day ahead. Works well to double the recipe for a large crowd or to have leftovers for a quick lunch.
Notes
Note on rinsing the quinoa: Quinoa has a natural outer coating called saponin that is very bitter. Several brands offer pre-rinsed quinoa where the outer coat has been removed for you. Check your package directions to see if it specifies that you should rinse or if it is pre-rinsed. When in doubt an extra rinse won't hurt.To rinse your quinoa, you need something with a fine sieve. A standard colander has holes that are too large and the quinoa will fall through. Rinse under cold running water for 30-45 seconds. Allow excess water to drip out for a few seconds are you are good to go. No need to adjust the water in the recipe if you rinse or not.Tip: Quinoa freezes really well. Make a bunch extra and stick some in the freezer for next time. One cup of raw quinoa makes approximately 3 cups cooked. Feel free to substitute 3 cups cooked quinoa for the raw quinoa and water listed in the recipe.