My Big (Won't Make You) Fat Greek Quinoa Salad

Laura's Greek Quinoa Salad

This was my first time having quinoa.  I heard so much about this "super food," that I had to try it out for myself. 

Quinoa, pronounced keen-wah, is a nutritional power house...literally!

1) Protein Powerhouse--quinoa has more protein than wheat, barley, or other major grains. Quinoa also contains all 8 of the essential amino acids.

2) Healthy Diets--it is satisfying, low in cholesterol, and a good source of complex carbs. What does that mean? It's rich in fiber, provides long lasting energy, and is slowly digested. Basically, it will help you to avoid the snack machine around 3pm.

3) Brain food--quinoa provides 15% of the recommended daily allowance of iron, which helps deliver oxygen to the blood--boosting energy and brain power. Quinoa also has vitamin B, which keeps your brain sharp and helps to maintain stable moods. 

See... now you don't have any excuses to have "brain farts." Eat some quinoa!

The amount of garlic you use in this dish will depend on who you are trying to keep away from you.  Don't worry, it isn't strong at all.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup uncooked red quinoa

1 cup water

1 1/2 T extra virgin olive oil

6-7 kalamata olives

2 oz reduced fat feta cheese

1 yellow, orange, or red bell pepper

1 medium cucumber, diced

1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced

2 lemons, juiced

1 T italian seasoning

1-2 tsp salt free garlic/herb seasoning

2 cloves garlic, minced

pepper/salt

Method;

Pour water in a sauce pan and add quinoa. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Chop all veggies & add to a large bowl. 

Add quinoa into bowl. Mix well.

Combine lemon juice, olive oil, salt free garlic/heb seasoning & pepper in a small bowl. Whisk together.

Add olives & feta cheese to salad mix. Add italian seasoning and garlic. Pour dressing over mixture. Stir well.

Divide into individual containers for easy grab n' go lunches.

Note: I let mine sit in the fridge over night. The flavors "really got to know each other," and it tasted divine. Enjoy!

Serves 3 (about 1 1/4 cup servings)

WW:

6pt+

Serving Suggestions--make it a complete meal w/ some grilled chicken, tuna or even tofu!

This recipe was inspired by  A Girl and Her Carrot Quintastic Spring Salad