Lemon Turmeric Quinoa Salad

Take a trip around the world with a combination of spices from different corners of the globe. Quinoa, fresh tomatoes, spinach, cilantro, a touch of parsley, onion, cucumber, jalapeno and lime juice are tossed together to create the base. It is then covered in a homemade Lemon Turmeric Oil-Free Dressing made with mint, fresh turmeric, ginger, lemon juice, agave, balsamic vinegar and a touch of salt and pepper. This salad is unbelievably healthy and well-balanced, it serves as a delicious meal or side. When placed in the fridge for a couple hours to overnight the natural colors from the turmeric brighten up the entire salad, it is equally as good fresh. This recipe makes four healthy servings and is wonderful for warm days. 

Quinoa is the superstar of this salad boasting with zinc, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, manganese, calcium, vitamin B6, all the amino acids for a protein source and more. The fiber content is high which can help your digestive system and even lessen the odds of a stroke. Quinoa is deemed a healthy option for those with a gluten-intolerance or with diabetes, it can even help regulate blood sugar levels and improve glucose sensitivity. It's also a low-carb, low-cal option for those interested. I learned all of this from this great article by Marry Spencer with HealthnFitnessshops.com. Check out her complete article here. 

Prep Time: 20-30 Minutes | Makes: 4 Servings

Quinoa Salad:
1 1/2 Cup Quinoa - Packed (Pre-cooked and Cooled)
2 Cups Freshly Diced Tomatoes 
1 Cup Chopped Spinach - Packed 
1 Cup Fresh Cilantro - Loose then Sliced Fine
1-2 Sprigs Fresh Cilantro - Sliced Fine
1 Jalapeño - Diced
1 1/2 Cup Diced Cucumber
1 Cup Diced Onion
2 Tbsp Lemon Juice - Freshly Squeezed

Peaceful Preparation:
Chop the vegetables in cubes for a uniform look. Place everything in a bowl. Toss together. Make the dressing below. Pour on top of the salad and mix together. Delicious with bread or chips. 

Lemon Turmeric Oil-Free Dressing
1 tsp Dried Mint
2 tsp Freshly Diced Turmeric
2 tsp Freshly Diced Ginger
1/4 Cup Lemon Juice
1/4 Cup Water
2 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar 
1 Tbsp Agave
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Pepper 

Peaceful Preparation:
Blend until smooth. Beware, it may stain the blender light orange for a while. You can also use 1/2 tsp of the powder and stir it in a small bowl vs. blend. 

The masterpiece is ready to be consumed!

Upon freshly tossing it will look so fresh, healthy and vibrant! 

After it has marinated it will brighten up the whole salad and look like this:

Enjoy each and every bite. With lots of love, Christa

Recipe of the Day: Healthy Pecan Carrot Cake - Raw, Vegan & Gluten-Free