Vegan Quinoa Salad with Vegetables

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup diced cucumber
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh sieve. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the quinoa and reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, until the quinoa is tender and the water has been absorbed.
2. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Allow to cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, bell peppers, cucumber, red onion, tomatoes, parsley, and mint.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour over the quinoa and vegetables and gently toss to combine.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Interesting Facts

• Quinoa is a seed, not a grain.
• Quinoa is a complete protein, containing all 9 essential amino acids.
• Quinoa is high in fiber, low in fat, and gluten-free.