Zesty Quinoa Salad

Guest blogger day!  My friend Rita made this delicious quinoa salad and sent me the recipe and photos for the blog.  Thanks Rita!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 limes, juiced (microwave 20 sec to get extra juicy before cutting)
• 2 TBS ground cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 c halved cherry or grape tomatoes
• 1 15oz can black beans, drained and rinsed (I use low sodium)
• 5 green onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 chopped fresh cilantro
• salt and pepper to taste

Bring quinoa and water to a boil in saucepan.  Reduce to medium low and cover.  Simmer until quinoa is tender and water has absorbed, 10-15 minutes.  Set aside to cool.

Whisk olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt and red pepper flakes together.  

Combine quinoa, black beans, tomatoes, and green onions together in a bowl.  Pour dressing mixture over and toss to coat.  Stir in cilantro, season with salt and pepper if desired.

For best taste chill in refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to let flavors marry.  Great with tacos! Very filling as a side dish as well.  Enjoy!

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