Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Yields 4 servings

Ingredients:

1 C. Shiloh Farms Organic Quinoa or PureLiving Organic Sprouted Quinoa, rinsed
1 1/2 C. water
1/4 tsp. Shiloh Farms Himalayan Pink Salt
3 Tbsp. minced red onion
1 fresh tomato, seeded and chopped
1/2 C. Shiloh Farms Organic Pine Nuts, toasted
1/4 C. kalamata olives, chopped
1/3 C. extra virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp. balsamic or red wine vinegar
1 tsp. dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 handful fresh basil, chopped

Directions:

1. Combine quinoa, water, and salt in saucepan and cook for just 12 minutes (refer to general cooking instructions below); remove from heat and let stand, covered, for at least 5 minutes
2. Spread cooked quinoa on a rimmed baking sheet to cool for at least 15-20 minutes
3. Combine remaining ingredients in a medium bowl; add cooled quinoa and stir to incorporate
4. Adjust seasonings as needed; chill in refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to combine 

General cooking instructions - Quinoa: 

1. Before cooking, always rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove saponin (a bitter tasting residue naturally found on quinoa).

2. After rinsing, combing 1 part quinoa with 1 1/2 parts liquid in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and allow to stand, covered, for 5-10 minutes before serving.