Kendra Castillo

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BLACK BEAN QUINOA SALAD


Black Bean and Tomato Quinoa Salad

This was the first time I've cooked Quinoa. I originally bought this Quinoa in bulk a few months ago because I wanted to try and make some. Buuuut I got scared and didn't make it until now. How stupid, it was so easy (I cooked it in my rice cooker) and delicious. 
You just need a few simple ingredients  and the best part is you can interchange things that you have on hand to create a new taste. I played around a bit until I found my favorite. 

You need: 
1 cucumber
2 large tomatoes
3 green onions
2 tbs cilantro (optional... but delicious) 
1 can black beans 
1 cup Quinoa 
1 lime 
2 tbs olive oil 
Salt and Pepper to taste


Directions: 
Mix together 2 tbs lime juice, 2 tsp lime zest, olive oil (I have also used sesame oil for a slightly different flavor), and salt & pepper. 

Cook Quinoa, I chose to use my rice cooker which made this process very very easy. You just cook it like you would white rice (2 cups water, 1 cup Quinoa). Also make sure to rinse your Quinoa prior to cooking it (rinse about 3 times in a fine mesh strainer). 

Once Quinoa is cooked mix it in with the dressing until it soaks it all up. Then add chopped veggies and chill in refrigerator  The flavors only get better the longer it sits. 

This was so yummy with a side of steak for dinner! I will be making this more often, so easy and tasty.