Quinoa Salad with Mixed Veggies

Ingredients

• •1 cup quinoa
• •2 cups water
• •1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• •1 cucumber, diced
• •1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• •1 carrot, grated
• •1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• •1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• •1/4 cup olive oil
• •2 tbsp lemon juice
• •1 tsp garlic powder
• •Salt to taste
• •Pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer.

2. 2

   In a medium pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, prepare the veggies: chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and grate the carrot. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

4. 4

   Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and let it cool slightly before adding it to the bowl with the veggies.

5. 5

   In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

6. 6

   Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.

7. 7

   Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.