It's hot, you're tired and the last thing you want to do is cook. But, you need to get that protein in your diet and popcorn just won't cut it. A Cup of Quinoa has 8 grams of protein. Some pre-cooked quinoa and a variety of dressings can turn salads and bowls into protein rich meals that can be ready in 15 minutes.
HOW TO COOK QUINOA
Rinse 1 C of Quinoa in Cold water
Add it to 1 3/4 C water
Simmer 15 min until water is absorbed
Cover and let sit for 5 min - Fluff
BASIC BOWL
1 C Quinoa
1 C Chopped Vegetables
1/2 C Healthy Fats (Avocado, Seeds and Nuts (maybe pumpkin)
Maybe an additional Protein? Fish, Chicken, Egg
Dressing
I use my mini food processor to make these dressings.
MAPLE TAHINI DRESSING
1/2 C Tahini
1 Garlic clove
3 T Lemon
1 T Maple syrup
1 T Olive Oil
3/4 t sea salt
2/3-3/4 C Water
Blend the first 5 ingredients, add water to desired consistency
SIMPLE SOY DRESSING
2 T Fresh Ginger
2 Garlic cloves
5 T Rice Vinegar
4 T Soy Sauce
1 T Honey
2 T Sesame Oil
1/4 C + 2 T Grapeseed oil
Blend the first ingredients and add the oil slowly at the end
GREEN GODDESS DRESSING
1 C Yoghurt
2 Garlic cloves
2 T Lemon juice
1 C Herbs (whatever you have)
Blend
JOHN'S NICOISE SALAD DRESSING
2 T Wine Vinegar (white or red)
1 Garlic clove
1 T Dijon Mustard
2-3 Anchovie Fillets
1/2 C Olive Oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Blend, adding the oil at the end
HONEY LEMON DRESSING
1 T pluse 2 t Fresh Lemon Juice
1 T Honey
1/2 t Thyme - Chopped
1/4 C Olive Oil
Blend
ZUCCHINI, MINT, FETA AND QUINOA SALAD
2 Small or 1 large Zucchini - sliced, salted and placed in colander
1 C cooked Quinoa
1/2 C Chopped fresh mint
Honey Lemon Dressing
CHOICE: 1 C Grape Tomatoes, 1/2 Red Onion, 6-8 oz feta
Add some grilled fish or chicken for even more protein
Happy Summer Eating! - Jan