Quinoa Party Salad

This determined reader ditched the fatty salad dressings and greasy chips for a healthy potluck favorite that leaves her friends and family begging for more!

Photo: Edward Pond

By Mellissa Solin

Serves: 8
Hands-on time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups quinoa
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice 1 lime
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• 3 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 1 15-oz BPA-free can black beans, rinsed
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium orange bell pepper, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a fine-mesh strainer, rinse quinoa thoroughly; drain well. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups water to a boil. Add quinoa, cover and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Let cool.
2. Meanwhile, prepare dressing: In a small bowl, whisk oil, lime juice, cumin and pepper flakes until combined. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine corn, beans, bell peppers, jalapeño and cilantro. Add quinoa and stir to combine. Top with dressing, season with salt and black pepper and mix well. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Nutrients per serving: Calories: 364, Total Fat: 10.5 g, Sat. Fat: 1 g, Carbs: 56 g, Monounsaturated Fat: 6 g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g, Fiber: 10 g, Sugars: 3 g, Protein: 14 g, Sodium: 46 mg, Cholesterol: 0 mg

READER RECIPE TESTER
Mellissa Solin
Minneapolis, Minnesota

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“I’m the person who brings the healthy and creative dish to a party – I like to challenge people to try new things. The Quinoa Party Salad is always a hit, boasting bright colors and fresh flavors, and it’s so easy to make!
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