Bruschetta Quinoa Salad

https://peasandcrayons.com/2013/07/bruschetta-quinoa-salad.html

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup dry quinoa

• 3/4 cup water or veggie broth

• 2 cups baby spinach optional

• 2 cups ripe tomato diced

• 2 cloves fresh garlic smashed and minced

• 1/4-1/2 cup cucumber peeled + diced

• 1/4 cup finely diced/minced white or red onion

• 2 TBSP extra virgin olive oil

• 2 TBSP red wine vinegar

• 5 large basil leaves, chopped/chiffonade plus extra for topping

• 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 tsp of dried parsley)

• 1/4 tsp salt1/8 tsp garlic powde

• r1/8 tsp dried dill

• sweet balsamic glaze for an optional drizzle

• salt and pepper to taste

OPTIONAL EXTRAS:

• finely diced green bell peppers or jalapeno peppers crumbled feta or goat cheese

Instructions

Pour dry quinoa into a sieve or mesh strainer, and rinse thoroughly to remove its natural coating.

Shake out any excess water from the sieve, toss it in a pot and pat it dry with a few paper towels.

Turn heat to medium or medium-high and lightly toast your quinoa to remove any leftover moisture.

While toasting, continue to move the quinoa around frequently (with a fork, spoon, or tool of choice) so it doesn't burn.

Once dry, add in your water or broth and increase heat to high.

Once the quinoa reaches a boil, reduce to low/simmer and cover, leaving a small corner of the lid ajar to allow steam to escape. Then set your timer for 12 minutes. After 12-13 minutes, remove quinoa from heat and fluff with a fork.If you're a fan of salt and pepper, break it out! I always season my quinoa with a bit of each after fluffing.

Combine chopped tomatoes, onion, cucumber and garlic in a small bowl.Whisk together olive oil, white balsamic or red wine vinegar, basil, parsley, salt, garlic powder, dill and pour over the veggies.

Mix well and allow the flavors to meld for a few minutes before tasting. After testing a spoonful, feel free to add in any extra seasonings or additional oil/vinegar if desired. To bring out extra sweetness in the tomatoes you can add a pinch of sugar or drizzle of honey to the mixture as well!

It's easily customized to rock your palette.If you want to up the veggies, plate your bruschetta quinoa on a bed of baby spinach or field greens! Otherwise just layer the two, drizzle with balsamic or balsamic glaze.

It's marvelous topped with crumbled feta or enjoyed all on it's own! Enjoy!