Saturday, July 28, 2012

Southwest Vegetarian Quinoa Salad


I have to thank my vegetarian friend, Jill, for introducing me to quinoa.  It's actually a grass seed from South America, but it's light texture and slightly nutty taste make is a perfect substitute for rice or couscous.  Versatile quinoa is a good source of protein and minerals, even better for you than brown rice. 

I love the flavor the quinoa picks up from the broth and spices; there's a compelling, earthy warmth to it- when combined with texture of the vegetables, this is a dish you'll make again and again.  


Ingredients

1 teaspoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
salt & pepper
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can corn, drained
1 small can diced green chile
2 green onions, sliced (green and white parts)
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

  • Add oil and garlic to saucepan, cook over medium heat, stirring, until garlic just begins to brown
  • Add quinoa, broth, cumin, cayenne, and salt and pepper to pan.  (I went really light on the salt because I used a Knorr bullion cube and water for my stock).  Bring to a boil, cover and simmer for 25 minutes
  • Remove from heat, and add remaining ingredients
  • Serve now or chill before serving

1 comments:

Neva Modzelewski said...

That quinoa salad looks appetizing. You know, I think I might introduce this dish too to my best friend who is a serious vegetarian. We are always together and not in a million years have I seen her eat this quinoa Salad. Hmm. I’ll let her see this. She’ll surely grab her pen and paper and she will most probably create this dish by herself. :D

Neva Modzelewski

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