Bright and Sunny California Quinoa Salad

Let me share with you a delicious recipe for an awesome and nutritiously dense way to get your protein. With 11g of protein and 8g of fibre per serving, you know it's going to be satisfying... and it's so good for you.

Quinoa is a great grain alternative. The protein in quinoa is complete, meaning that it contains all the essential protein building blocks that our bodies need. The addition of edemame and almonds just adds even more protein, but what I think makes this salad so delicious is the lime zest, it makes it bright and sunny.... just like California!

My source calls it a 'copy cat' recipe to the Whole Foods version of this salad, so here's the recipe.

California Quinoa Salad

(adapted from http://damndelicious.net/2014/06/07/whole-foods-california-quinoa-salad/)

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• Zest of 2 limes
• 1 mango, peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup shelled edamame
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions

In a large saucepan of 2 cups water, cook quinoa according to package instructions; set aside.

In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and lime zest; set aside.

In a large bowl, combine quinoa, mango, bell pepper, edamame, red onion, coconut flakes, almonds, raisins and cilantro. Pour the balsamic vinegar mixture on top of the salad and gently toss to combine.

Serve immediately.