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.