One of my favorite foods to eat in the summertime is Quinoa. It is a grain that is similar to cous cous, and used in salads, soups and vegetarian burgers. I love making quinoa salads in the summertime, and this one below is similar to the one sold at whole foods. At about $12 to make, this one won’t break the bank and it is super healthy.

Black bean quinoa salad
2 Veggie broth
1 cup quinoa
1 clove garlic
1 can of black beans
1/2 large red bell pepper
3 sprigs of green onions
1 can corn
2 tsp oil
2 tsp. apple cider or red wine vinegar
1 tsp. hot sauce
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 C lime juice
handful of shredded carrots
Chop the garlic and combine with the veggie broth and quinoa. Bring to a boil and then simmer until cooked fully. Similar to rice. Meanwhile, chop the bell pepper, onion, and lime. Throw all the ingredients into a large bowl and when quinoa is light and fluffy, mix in with all ingredients. Combine everything nicely and then chill in the fridge for an hour before serving. Makes a terrifc picnic salad and mixes well with mexican food dishes.
oh yum…but not just for summer…this sounds delicious for our current winter time too! Like the idea of the dressing ingredients…a bit of spice.