Gluten Free Broccoli Quinoa Salad

Quinoa, quinoa, quinoa...I just can't seem to get enough of this tasty little thing. Its everywhere now days. Chips, soups, salads, and even stuffed peppers (a recipe I shared in a recent post ).
It has actually become on of my husbands favorites recently also since he tried it at the "First Watch" for breakfast one day..

This recipe is a filling salad to enjoy without all those "rabbit" foods as my mother in law calls them. Its loaded with protein, veggies, and flavor. Now don't get me wrong, I still love my rice dishes, but since quinoa is loaded with protein, and I am not a big meat eater, I try to incorporate it as much as I can into my recipes.

I hope you enjoy it and share the recipe with a friend!

Here's to a great gluten free week!
Sharon


Ingredients:

12 ounces fresh broccoli
2 cups uncooked quinoa
1 large cucumber, cubed
6 ounces diced cherry tomatoes
1/3 cup chopped almonds
1/4 teaspoon salt, preferably sea salt
pinch of pepper

Dressing:

1/4 cup Dijon GF mustard
3 T apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 T pure GF maple syrup


Cook the quinoa according to directions using either water or your choice of GF broth. Let cool.

In a small bowl mix together the dressing ingredients and set aside.

Place the broccoli in a blender or food processor and pulse until minced, or mince by hand. Place in the microwave on high for two-three minutes.

Toss the cooked quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, almonds, and broccoli together in a large bowl. Add dressing and mix together until coated. Add the salt and pepper. Refrigerate two hours until flavors blend together, then serve.

Yields about 6 servings