Quinoa Salad with Garbanzo Beans and Tahini

All I am saying... is give quinoa a chance!

Have you given Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) a chance yet?

As a vegetarian, I am always making sure that the combinations of foods I am using together, will form a complete protein.

Quinoa is a complete protein in and of itself.

How easy is that?

Here is one of my favorite quinoa recipes....

Quinoa Salad with Garbanzo Beans and Tahini
((Printable Recipe))


1 c. quinoa, rinsed
2 c. water
1/2 tsp. sea salt
1 can garbanzo beans (or dried beans soaked and cooked)
1/2 c. cilantro, chopped
1/2 red onion, minced

Dressing:
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 c. tahini
zest of lemon (to taste)
1/4 c. fresh lemon juice
2 T. extra virgin olive oil
2 T. hot water
1/2 tsp. sea salt (to taste)
(Mix all of the above together and set aside.)

Bring quinoa and water to a boil.  Reduce heat, partially cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.

The quinoa is done when the little 'tails' appear on each one.

*dry quinoa on the left, cooked on the right

Fluff the quinoa with a fork.  Add the beans, red onion, cilantro and half the dressing.

Chill.

Serve with more dressing on the side as needed.

This makes a great hearty cold salad for lunch.

(Recipe source:  101 Cookbooks)

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