Quinoa is the only grain that provides all 9 essential amino acids, making it a complete protein, especially important for the vegetarian in your family. Aside from the high protein this grain provides, the raw feta further boosts the protein value and provides a good source of calcium. This recipe, courtesy of Lauren Living Healthy, is rich in lycopene from the tomatoes and filled with other nutrient dense foods. Serve it as a meal in a bowl for dinner with an arugula salad and toss up the leftovers for lunch the next day.
MEDITERRANEAN QUINOA SALAD
Serving size: 1 cup
2 cups of Salad
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup of quinoa
2 cups of water or chicken/veggie broth
½ teaspoon of celtic sea salt
2 cloves of minced garlic
½ cup of cilantro
½ cup of finely chopped scallions
¼ cup of lemon juice
¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil
½ cup of raw feta
1 cup of cucumber, chopped
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup of pitted Kalamata olive
2 tablespoons of cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste.
DIRECTIONS:
Soak quinoa overnight for maximum nutrition. Strain and rinse. Bring quinoa and water to boil, cover and simmer on low heat. Let cool, then transfer to bowl. Add the garlic and scallions and all chopped herbs and veggies. Stir in with lemon juice and olive oil. Add feta and olives. Salt and pepper. Then let sit for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Lauren Rashap
Owner, Lauren Living Healthy
Lauren Rashap is a third generation health practitioner with over 18 years in private practice. A certified clinical nutritionist and yoga and meditation instructor, Lauren developed one of the first, full-service “traveling spas.” She is the founder of Lauren Living Healthy, author of the book, “Vibrant Skin at Any Age,” and an award winning speaker.
