Your meals shouldn't have to look dull or only be green. Add color to your day with this vibrant quinoa salad! Not only is this salad easy to make, it is a super tasty and delicious meal that is quick to make so you got plenty of time left to spend with your loved ones.

If you were already a lover of quinoa but never toasted it before, you may be surprised by the depth of flavor and delightful texture this simple step can add to your favorite whole, gluten-free, ancient pseudo-grain.

Never tried quinoa before? Allow me to quickly introduce you to this superfood.

What the heck is quinoa (pronounced keen-wah)

Quinoa has been around for three to four thousand years. Inca’s called it their “Golden Grain” because they believed it increased the stamina of their hunter and warriors and hunters. Though many refer to quinoa as a grain it's actually a seed.

Although quinoa dates back ages, it was so popular in the West until a few years ago. With more people looking for whole and gluten-free foods, quinoa came into the spotlight. These days it’s all the hype and this ancient green is finding its way to our kitchen tables and restaurants.

Lately, it is being referred to as “ The Super grain Of The future”, for some good reasons.

Quinoa benefits in a nutshell

Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it has all 9 essential amino acids, including lysine. Lysine is important for our tissue growth and repair.
Quinoa contains almost twice as much fiber compared to other whole grains. Fibers are super important for our health. They relieve constipation, reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol, aid weight loss, and reduce the risk of diabetes, heart diseases, and hemorrhoids.
High levels of iron. Our body needs iron to keep our red blood cells healthy. It carries oxygen to our cells, muscles, and tissues while improving brain function.
Great source of magnesium. Magnesium is a vital mineral that plays a role in over 300 enzyme reactions in our body. It improves your sleep, relaxes the nervous system, builds strong muscles, reduces stress, alkalizes the body, facilitates sugar metabolism, among many other processes.
High in vitamin B2 (riboflavin). Vitamin B2 is essential for proper energy production in the brain, cells, and muscles.
Quinoa is also rich in manganese**. Manganese is an essential mineral with powerful antioxidant properties to protect your body (especially the mitochondria and red blood cells) from damage done by free radicals.
Quinoa is free of gluten

TOASTED QUINOA WITH AVOCADO, RED BEET AND ORANGE MUSTARD DRESSING 🥑🍊🌱

INGREDIENTS

For the salad

1/2 cup cooked quinoa
2-3 cups salad green of your choice
1 avocado, cubed
1/4 cup finely chopped spring onion
1 orange, peeled and chopped
1 cup raw red beet, cut into thin matchsticks
2 tbsp unsalted sliced almonds (optional)

For the mustard dressing

0.5-1 tsp grated orange zest
1 tbsp fresh orange juice
1 tsp vegan mustard
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tbsp walnut oil or more olive oil (avocado or other oils work too)
Black pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

Cook quinoa according to the instructions on the package. This will take about 15 minutes.
Combine all salad ingredients in a bowl. Toss to combine and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients. Set aside.
To toast the quinoa, toss cooked quinoa with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Place in hot skillet or wok and toast until fragrant and slightly browned. This will take 5 to 10 minutes.
Combine all ingredients in a bowl or plate and drizzle with the orange mustard dressing.