Quinoa & Chickpea Salad

Oh how I love simple meals! I especially love this recipe because

1. It’s so quick and easy to prepare.

2. It’s travels well.

3. It’s delicious, light, healthy and tastes good straight out of the fridge.

This protein packed salad is the way to go if you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or lunch.

Ingredients (organic if possible):
1 cup cooked quinoa
1½ cups chickpeas (if using canned, drain and rinse them first)
1 small cucumber, sliced
1 large garlic clove, crushed
2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
1 cup green onion, chopped small
1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 cup mint leaves, chopped
⅓ cup lemon juice (2 large or 3 medium lemons)
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. Put the cooked quinoa in a large bowl. Add the chickpeas, cucumbers, minced garlic, cherry tomatoes, green onion, parsley and mint. Toss well to combine.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil and some salt and pepper. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa & chickpea mixture and mix well. Adjust seasonings again, if necessary.
4. Serve cold or at room temperature.
5. Enjoy! X