This superfood salad is a perfect post-workout snack. Not only does it contain the perfect ratio of protein to carbohydrates, but it's also packed with nutrients from the spinach, red onion, and bell pepper. This quinoa and spinach salad is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and protein. It's also a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
I first came up with this recipe when I was looking for a quick and easy way to get more vegetables into my diet. I had been experimenting with different ways to cook quinoa, and I had recently discovered the joys of baby spinach. I decided to combine the two, and the result was this delicious and nutritious salad.
Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 2
Ingredients
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup chopped spinach
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
Fluff the quinoa with a fork.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
Stir in the quinoa and cumin and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
Why It Works
The quinoa provides a good source of protein and carbohydrates, which will help to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
The spinach is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium.
The red onion and bell pepper add a bit of sweetness and crunch to the salad.
The olive oil and cumin add flavor and depth to the dressing.