Quinoa Tabbouleh

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup diced cucumber
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Rinse quinoa in a fine mesh sieve.
2. Add quinoa to a medium pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and let cool to room temperature.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, mint, and bell pepper.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour dressing over quinoa mixture and gently toss to combine.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Interesting Facts

• Quinoa is a gluten-free grain that is high in protein and fiber.
• Tabbouleh is traditionally served as part of a mezze platter in the Middle East.
• This dish is vegan, dairy-free, and nut-free.