Tropical Quinoa Salsa Salad

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 mango, cubed
• 1/2 cup diced pineapple
• 1/2 cup diced papaya
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain.
2. Bring the 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
3. Add the quinoa and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and let cool.
5. In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, mango, pineapple, papaya, bell peppers, cilantro, salsa, olive oil, lime juice and salt.
6. Toss to combine and serve.

Interesting Facts

• Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning that it contains all of the essential amino acids.
• Mangoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and beta-carotene.
• Pineapples contain bromelain, an enzyme that helps with digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Papaya is a great source of fiber and is high in minerals like potassium and magnesium.
• Bell peppers are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Cilantro is an herb that has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.