This is a fabulous salad – if you look through the recipe, you may not think it looks like much, but please try it! you won’t be dissappointed.  Quinoa is an ancient grain, found in most large grocery stores in the health food section.

• 2 1/4 cups water
• 1/8 tsp. salt (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups Quinoa

Combine in saucepan and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer covered for about 20 minutes (without stirring) until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender.

In small frying pan – cook the following for 5 – 10 minutes stirring often until onion is softened.:

• 2 tsp. olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (or shallots)

Add to quinoa, stir and cool.

Then add:

• 3/4 cup chopped fitted dates
• 1/2 cup light feta cheese
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds (toasted)
• 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or flakes

DRESSING - In a small bowl mix together:

• 3 Tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 Tablespoons liquid honey
• 1 Tablespoon olive or canola oil
• salt/pepper

Drizzle over quinoa mixture and toss until coated.  Makes about 6 cups.

** Note:  I didn’t have feta cheese or celery and the salad was still fabulous – please give it a try!

1 cup (250 ml): 354 calories; 11.6 g Total fat (5.9 g Mono, 2.3 g Poly, 2.0 g Sat); 4 mg cholesterol; 55 g Carbohydrate; 6 g fibre; 11 g Protein, 318 mg Sodium.

Posted on December 3rd, 2008 by neslyn
Filed under: Salads