Orange-Cilantro Quinoa Salad

food snob mom's Note:

I got this recipe a few years ago from a health magazine. This is the best way I've found to eat quinoa. Use fresh ingredients and make sure your quinoa is thoroughly rinsed and the heat is down low when you cook it. It may take a little longer than 15-17 min.to cook.

• Total Time: 35 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 6

• 2 cups water
• 1/4 teaspoon table salt
• 1 cup quinoa, uncooked, rinsed thoroughly
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup carrot, shredded
• 1/2 cup scallion, sliced
• 1 -2 teaspoon gingerroot, freshly grated
• 1/2 cup orange juice, fresh
• 1/3 cup cilantro, fresh, chopped

Directions:

1. Bring water and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add quinoa; cover, reduce heat to low and simmer until quinoa is translucent and tender, about 15 to 17 minutes. Drain off any remaining liquid.
3. While quinoa cooks, heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add carrot, scallions and ginger (use an amount to your own personal liking, starting with less and adding more if needed); cook over medium heat, stirring, until carrots are crisp-tender, about 1 minute. Stir in quinoa; cook, stirring, until well mixed.
5. Remove from heat; stir in orange juice and cilantro and serve. Yields about 3/4 cup per serving.