Friday, June 6, 2008

Quinoa Bean Pilaf



Makes 4 -5 servings

1 cup dry quinoa (rinsed in cold water)
2 cups water
1/2 orange or red bell pepper, diced
1/3 yellow squash, diced
1/3 cucumber, diced
1 tomato, diced
1/2 cup cooked beans (I used pinto)
Lemon Herb Vinaigrette* (recipe follows)

In a medium saucepan, add quinoa, water, bell peppers, and squash. Bring to a boil, then simmer and cover until all of the liquid is absorbed (about 10-15 minutes). Once cooked, transfer to another bowl, add cucumber, tomato, and beans. Toss together with lemon herb vinaigrette. 

Lemon Herb Vinaigrette

2 lemons, freshly squeezed
1-2 garlics, minced
2 tsp dijon mustard
2 tsp Herbs de Provence
salt & pepper
1/2 cup olive oil

Combine all ingredients in a container with a tight fitting lid and shake vigorously until well combined. 



Italian Dressing

This is the dressing we always have on hand at my house. It's a classic Italian dressing, bursting with fresh flavor. 

Balsamic Italian, Regular Italian

Italian Dressing
1/4 cup vinegar 
3 tablespoons water
Italian Spices*
1/2 cup olive oil

In a container with a tight lid, mix vinegar, water, and spices together. Shake vigorously until well blended. Add oil and shake again until well blended. 

Notes:
-We keep our dressing in the pantry, but you can refrigerate it if you wish. 
- Use whatever vinegar you have on hand. I love using balsamic or apple cider vinegar.
-You have a few different options for the Italian spices. You can use a prepared Italian spice blend, make your own using your favorite herbs and spices, or Good Seasons makes a good, all natural Italian dressing mix.