Quinoa Salad

Pronounced KEEN-wah, this salad is so good and so refreshing!

Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa, rinsed

2 cups water

2 tablespoons honey

1/4 cup lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon coarse salt

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup peeled, diced tart apple, such as Granny Smith

1 cup finely chopped celery

1/3 cup Craisins

1/3 cup finely chopped parsley

1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Coarse salt and pepper

In a medium-size saucepan, combine the quinoa and water, then bring them to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Transfer the quinoa to a large bowl, stir, and let it cool completely.

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lemon juice, and salt. Gradually whisk in the oil until blended.

Add the apple, celery, Craisins, parsley, and almonds (I bought slivered almonds and scorched them in a dry skillet... perfect!) to the quinoa and toss the ingredients well. Add the dressing and toss once more to coat the salad. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Serves 6 to 8.

I'm linking this to my favorite linky parties this week!