Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Cranberry Walnut Quinoa Salad



This wasn't my favorite, but think that after it sits for 24 hours, it will taste even better! I am not a huge fan of the balsamic vinegar, but it is good! My sons LOVED it and gobbled it up, while my daughters didn't like it. I guess they are with me on the balsamic vinegar! I will make it again, but may not add as much vinegar...
I also didn't have any green onions, so I didn't add that.

Let me know what you think!





The quinoa and water in the pot, bring to a boil

The vinegar and garlic and oil


Add the quinoa, green beans, dried cranberries and walnuts to the vinegar mixture.



After it's all mixed up!
Put in the frig for atleast 30 minutes. The longer it sits in the frig, the better it will be!


Cranberry Walnut Quinoa Salad


1 cup quinoa
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup frozen green beans, defrosted
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced


Combine quinoa with 2 cups water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and continue cooking until all water is absorbed.

In a medium bowl, combine cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, green beans, walnuts, and green onions until well mixed. In a small bowl, whisk the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and garlic until well blended. Pour over the quinoa mixture. Toss until well blended. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving

*Instead of mincing the garlic, I put it through the garlic press.
I may add more cranberries and walnuts too! The crunch makes it really good!