Quinoa-Kale Salad w/ Apricots
| It’s almost summer–that amazing time of year when fresh, delicious produce and the opportunity to make fresh, healthy food choices increases. This nutrient-packed dish is the perfect seasonal meal that will keep you at your best this summer, while giving you plenty of time to enjoy sun and fun!Ingredients:¾ cup quinoa2 cups water2 cloves garlic, chopped1 tsp cumin1 ½ tbsp dijon mustard3 tbsp olive oil2 cups washed kale, finely chopped1 can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained¾ cup dried apricots, chopped¼ red onion, coarsely chopped3 tsp fresh cilantro, choppedPinch of ground pepper and salt Directions:Heat a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the quinoa and toast for 2 minutes.Add the water, cover, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue to simmer until the water is absorbed (about 20 minutes). Leave to cool.Make the dressing by whisking the garlic, cumin, mustard, kefir, salt, and pepper, slowly adding the olive oil.Place the kale, kidney beans, apricots, onion, and cilantro in a large bowl Add the quinoa, dressing, toss everything, then serve. This dish is packed with nutrient-dense Superfoods that benefit your health in a number of ways. Quinoa–a complex grain and excellent source of protein– is rich in magnesium, an antioxidant that helps prevent damage to your cells during energy production. Finally, the base of this summer salad-kale- is a rich source of iron: essential for transporting oxygen to various parts of the body and calcium for strong bones! By: Allegra Egizi |
