Description

Quinoa is a power plant protein – one of THE BEST whole grains on the planet! A naturally gluten-free grain, cultivated thousands of years ago and considered sacred to the ancient Incas, quinoa is one of few plant-based, complete protein sources. The classic combination of mint and peas paired with an incredibly easy dressing (all you need is 1 lemon, salt, pepper, oil and balsamic), makes this recipe fast and simple. I added a small amount of cranberries and walnuts for texture and a nutty sweetness.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup (240 ml) quinoa, rinsed and drained*
1 3/4 cup (420 ml) water + 1 tbsp for peas
1/2 tsp sea salt
1 cup (240 ml) organic frozen peas
25 fresh mint leaves (about 3 to 4 stems), sliced twice through or torn
2 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves removed
6 sprigs fresh parsley, roughly chopped (more to taste)
2 tbsp cranberries (slightly sweetened), finely chopped
2 tbsp walnuts, roughly chopped

For Dressing

1/8 tsp fresh ground pepper (about 5 full turns of a pepper mill)
2 generous pinches sea salt
8 tsp lemon juice (1 lemon required)
1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

In a heavy bottomed saucepot heat rinsed and drained quinoa over medium-high heat until it becomes slightly golden brown. Add salt, water, and bring to a boil. Lower to a simmer and cook, covered, for 20 minutes. Uncover, fluff with a fork, and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Place peas along with 1 tbsp of water in the same sauce pot and cook over high heat a minute or two until cooked through. Remove, drain any excess water, and transfer peas to quinoa mixing bowl. Add all remaining ingredients (apart from dressing) and stir to incorporate.
Place all dressing ingredients into a small mixing bowl and whisk to incorporate. Drizzle over quinoa and stir with a wooden spoon to combine. Enjoy!

Notes

I recommend quinoa from Alter Eco which supports Bolivian farmers who have been growing this grain for centuries, and is organic and 100% fair trade.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Category: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 220