Classically Quinoa

Here's a super quick and easy Quinoa Salad I made for my mother while she was out. She went down the block to pick up some ingredients for Sambusak and when she returned I had this gorgeous, colorful and slightly belated Mother's Day Salad waiting for her. This is the type of salad that you could whip up in no time (OK, OK it's about 15-20 minutes time but who's counting!?). The ingredients for this salad can be left out completely or replaced with others. Whatever you wish to add will be simply delicious. If you want to make it a sweet, Waldorf-style version you could add Craisins and chopped walnuts. You could also make it super herb-acious by adding whatever fresh herbs you have on hand (the more the better!). Let your imagination run wild- or just check out what's in the pantry and fridge and throw it all in!

Classically Quinoa Salad

2 Cup Cooked Quinoa
2 Bell Peppers (your choice of colors) ,diced
1 Red Onion, diced
1/4 Cup Shredded Carrots, chopped
1 Can of Corn or fresh!
1 Can of Kidney Beans
1 Can of Black Beans
2 Tbs. Parsley, chopped
2 Lemons, zest and juice
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Fresh Cracked Salt and Pepper
1 Tbs. Cumin

Cook the quinoa according to package directions. Fluff and let cool slightly. Chop all of the vegetables to a fine dice and open the cans (too easy, I know). Add all Vegetables to the Quinoa. Add the chopped Parsley and Lemon Zest. Dress with the Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Juice from the Lemons, Salt, Pepper and Cumin. Taste and adjust seasonings accordingly. Enjoy!