Herbed Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is probably one of my favorite grains of all times. Not only is it very easy to make and extremely versatile, but it also packs a great nutritional punch. Quinoa is a complete protein, which means it contains all of the essential amino acids. It's also a wonderful source of protein, yielding about 8 grams of protein for just 1 cup of cooked quinoa. Quinoa is also a great source of fiber, magnesium, manganese, zinc and potassium and is low in gluten, which means those with celiac disease can eat it. One of these years, I'm going to try and grow it in my garden.

I love a good cold grain salad, especially one based on quinoa, because not only are they quick and easy to make, but they also hold well and make wonderful leftovers. They are also the perfect accompaniment to a warm summer evening's meal.

I threw this salad together one night to go along with some grilled burgers we were having (stay tuned later this week for that recipe - might just be my favorite non-mushy vegetarian burger ever!) and it was quite delicious and full of flavor. I used my rice cooker to make the quinoa, which is almost too easy. After it's cooked, you simply toss it with the remaining ingredients and can serve it either warm or chilled. Either way, it's bound to be a great addition to your meal.

Herbed Quinoa Salad

1 cup red quinoa, rinsed
1 tsp cumin seed
1 tsp coriander seed
8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 c fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp good olive oil
3/4 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp worcestershire sauce
1/4 c chopped fresh dill
1/4 c chopped fresh Italian parsley
1/4 c chopped fresh cilantro

Add cumin seed and coriander seed to water and cook quinoa according to directions. (For me, that's 1 cup quinoa and 2 cups water in my rice cooker) Meanwhile, saute mushrooms in 2 tbsp olive oil until cooked. (about 5-7 minutes) Add to bowl with cooked quinoa. Add salt, lemon juice, additional olive oil, garam masala and worcestershire sauce and combine well. Add fresh herbs and toss until combined. Serve warm or chilled.