KWIN-wah

This recipe probably sounds hippy-dippy but just trust me on this one. Mama Goddess made this yesterday and I kept going back for more. Now, quinoa isn't an American diet staple. Although, it probably should be. It's originally from South America and is very healthy. It's a grain-like crop that is very high in protein (12-18%). It has a lot of fiber, is gluten-free, and easily digestible. (Shout out to Wikipedia for all of this info!)

Anyways, Mama Goddess found this recipe at our family's mecca. Enter Costco. Quinoa 365 is an amazing cookbook that has a ton of recipes using this healthy 'grain'. Just looking through it makes me want to try everything.

Fresh Cucumber and Toasted Almond Salad with Dill

From Quinoa 365

Ingredients:
1/2 cup sliced raw almonds
1 cup quinoa
2 cups vegetable or chicken stock
3 tablespoons EV olive oil
3 tablespoons white wine vinegar or white rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups chopped English cucumber
1/2 cup sliced green onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Spread the almonds evenly on baking sheet and bake on the center rack for 5 to 7 minutes, until the almonds are fragrant and lightly toasted. Remove from the oven and set aside.
3. Place the quinoa in a large saucepan over medium heat. Toast for 3 to 5 minutes until it is fragrant but not browned. Shake the saucepan from side to side occasionally to turn the quinoa and toast it evenly. (Note: if you use a saucepan with a larger bottom, it will toast faster)
4. Add the stock to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 10 minutes, then turn the heat off and leave the covered pan on the burner for an additional 4 minutes.
5. Remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer to a large bowl to cool completely.
6. Whisk together the oil, vinegar, and salt in a small bowl.
7. Add to the quinoa and mix thoroughly. Add the cucumber, green onion, and dill, tossing well.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle with the toasted almonds/

Best if enjoyed immediately but can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days