Toasted Quinoa, Snow Peas, Tomatoes and Mozzarella Salad

Podkayne's Note:

This is a great summery salad full of fresh tastes. Makes enough for a crowd. From Cooking Light, June 2007.

• Total Time: 45 mins
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 8

• 1 ½ cups uncooked quinoa
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup snow peas , cut diagonally
• ¾ cup diced fresh mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup chopped red onion
• ½ cup cucumber , chopped seeded
• ¼ cup chopped fresh mint
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes , halved
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon hot pepper sauce

Directions:

1. Toast quinoa in a medium sauce pan, about 5 minutes. Add 3 cups of water to the pan, and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes or until tender. Fluff with a fork and cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa and peas, mozzarella, onion, cucumber, mint, basil, and tomatoes.
3. Whisk lemon rind, juice, and olive oil in a small bowl.
4. Toss with quinoa mixture to coat.

Reviews

[jude503]

I followed this recipe exactly except used a larger quantity of the peas & cucumbers (had so many from the garden). At first it was VERY tart for my taste. I recommend adding tablespoon or so of Agave nectar or other sweetener to the dressing- after that it was absolutely wonderful. Perfect for a hot day. Thanks for the recipe!