Food: Quinoa Tabbouleh

Quinoa is the latest health food to hit American's plates, however, for thousands of years quinoa has been part of the Peruvian, Chilean, and Bolivian culture. Quinoa is considered a grain; an amino acid-rich seed that belongs to the same species as the leafy green vegetables such as spinach and beets.

Quinoa is very nutritous. As a complete protein quinoa contains all nine amino acids including the amino acid lysine, which is essential in the repair and growth of tissues. It also contains phosphorus and magnesium. Magnesium is a mineral that helps relax blood vessels, helping prevent migraines. Magnesium is also essential to heart health. Quinoa is wheat and gluten-free, and can be enjoyed by almost everyone, including those suffering with diabetes and atherosclerosis. 

Organic Quinoa Tabbouleh Ingredients
Makes about 7 cups, enough for 4-6 people

1 cup of dry quinoa quinoa
1/2 red onion
2 cloves garlic
1 bunch parsley (about 2 cups)
1 bunch mint (about 1/2 cup)
2 medium tomatoes
extra lemon juice to taste
1/4 cup good extra-virgin olive oil
8 ounces feta
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
salt to taste

Rinse the quinoa thoroughly. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium sauce pan. Add the quinoa and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Lower the stove to medium-low flame, cover, and cook for about 20 minutes, until the quinoa is fluffy and chewy.

Cut the tomatoes in quarters and squeeze out the seeds. Dice the remaining tomato into small pieces. Finely mince the garlic, parsley, and mint. Meanwhile, dice the half a red onion and put it in a bowl covered with water and a pinch of salt to soak.

Empty the quinoa into a large bowl and allow it to cool at room temperature. The quinoa should feel just barely warm to the touch.

Once it has cooled, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and a healthy pinch of salt. Pour it over the quinoa and stir until the grains are evenly coated. Add the parsley, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and mint, and stir to combine. Crumble the feta over the top and gently stir it in as well. Taste the salad and add more lemon juice or salt as desired.

About the Author: Kodjo Hounnaké is a health enthusiast who blogs about health and fitness related topics, including healthy eating.