Healthy Mediterranean Quinoa Tabbouleh

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 1 cup cucumber diced
• 1 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint finely chopped
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

1. 1 Combine the rinsed quinoa and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. 2 Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.
3. 3 Remove the cooked quinoa from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
4. 4 In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, and mint.
5. 5 Add the cooled quinoa to the vegetable mixture and gently toss to combine.
6. 6 In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
7. 7 Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture, and toss until well coated.
8. 8 Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if desired.
9. 9 Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours for enhanced flavors.