Friday's Fixin's: Quinoa Arugula Salad

Below is one of my favorite recipes: Quinoa Arugula Salad. I posted it about a year ago and it has been the most requested recipe. Weekly, people email asking, “What is that quinoa-is it quinoa?-salad that is so good?”  So, I thought I’d post it again for you. I made a big batch that I have joyously been munching all week.

The recipe has gone through several iterations, originally called “Orzo Arugula Salad”.  The first recipe came from Nirasha Holcomb.

Then…my good friend  (and chef extraordinaire) Maili Halme Brocke added a few ingredients. Then…(with Maili’s blessing) I exchanged the Orzo for Quinoa (for all of the health benefits).  I’m just learning to cook, which is so much fun.  I’m wondering: do recipes always go through so many transformations?

Hope you enjoy this delicious, nutritious, and easy-breezy recipe. Click here to download and print it out!

Health Benefits of Quinoa [www.livestrong.com]:

1. Quinoa is a complete protein, which means that it contains all the amino acids necessary for our nutritional needs. Complete proteins are rare in the plant world, making quinoa an excellent food for vegetarians and vegans, or for anyone looking for healthy protein source. It’s also high in iron and calcium, and is a good source of manganese, magnesium and copper, as well as fiber.
2. Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent food for celiac patients or other people following a gluten-free diet. Quinoa flour is great for baking cookies, breads and muffins, and quinoa flakes are a perfect substitute for oatmeal.

Isn’t it great when something is super delicious AND nutritious? Win-Win!

Thanks, Maili and Nirasha, for sharing this Silver Lining recipe with The Silver Pen!