Staying Cool With Quick and Easy Quinoa Salad

A successful meal during the summer typically means how fast you can get in and out of the kitchen with minimal use of your stove…  so with the theme of keepin’ it cool I came up with this tasty quinoa summer salad. This salad allows the freedom for additions depending on how much time and ingredients you have on hand.

*This recipe is 1-2 servings, so adjust quantities as needed

Prep and cooking time: 20 minutes

Directions:

Cook approximately 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa

When quinoa is about done and there is still some remaining water add a handful of chopped kale (spinach or swiss chard will also work). Cover and cook until water is absorbed and kale is cooked (about 3-5 minutes)

Let quinoa cool, uncovered for a few minutes

Chop:

1/4 medium sized cucumber

1/2 small tomato

1/4 of small yellow onion and/or 1 clove of garlic

1/4 avocado

Combine all ingredients (including quinoa) in a bowl

Mix in:

1/2 lemon

A drizzle of olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Sprinkle with sesame seeds if you have them on hand and there you have it! A cool, quick and easy summer salad!

Other optional ingredients : top with chopped scallions, chopped parsley, chickpeas…. the combinations are endless!