Citrus Basil Quinoa Salad

It's no secret.  I Love Quinoa.  Hot, cold, for breakfast... you name it.  I'm a huge fan of this "superfood" =)

I just came across this recipe when looking for cool, fresh foods to make for a dinner party... I hope you like it as much as I do! (recipe from detoxinista.com)

* The picture on her site actually had carrots in it, but they weren't in the ingredient list, so I forgot to add them.   I think they would be a good, and colorful addition, though)

Ingredients:

For the Quinoa Salad:

1 1/2 cups dry quinoa
3 cups water
1 cup Orange Basil Dressing (recipe below)
1/2 cup finely diced red onion
1 cucumber, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1 red bell pepper, chopped
salt and pepper

For the Orange Basil Dressing:

1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup tightly packed fresh basil
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1 tablespoon honey

Directions:

Combine the dry quinoa and water in a medium saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat, allowing the quinoa to cook for 15 minutes, or until all of the water is absorbed. Remove from the heat, and fluff with a fork.  (I did and would recommend that you allow to cool before adding the dressing and vegetables to keep the spinach from wilting).

To prepare the Orange Basil Dressing, combine all of the ingredients in a blender, and blend until completely smooth and emulsified. Adjust the flavor to taste, if desired.

Transfer the quinoa to a large bowl and toss with one cup of the Orange Basil Dressing and all of the chopped vegetables.  Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and allow to marinate in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. Serve chilled, or at room temperature.