Quinoa Edamame Salad

Trying to eat healthier is no easy task! Going to be trying this! If you have never looked at the recipes in "Our Best Bites" you should check it out. I can honestly say it's one cook book worth having. Look them up online! One of my faves! (Thanks Em, for sending me this yummy recipe to try!)

Quinoa Edamame Salad

Recipe adapted from Thermador Kitchens by Our Best Bites

1 c. black quinoa (if you can find it–try the bins at Whole Foods. But really, any type of quinoa will work)

2 c. water

1/2 c. rice wine vinegar

6 Tbsp. grapeseed oil*

2 Tbsp. flax oil*

*You can substitute 1/2 c. light olive oil here–extra virgin will have too strong of a flavor

1/3 c. chopped fresh cilantro

2 limes, juiced

1 T. honey

3/4 tsp. salt (plus more to taste, if desired)

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 lbs. frozen, shelled edamame (green soybeans)

4 green onions, thinly sliced

½ c. chopped peanuts (optional)

Cook quinoa (click here to find out how!) While the quinoa is cooking, whisk together the vinegar, oil, lime juice, honey, salt, cilantro, and garlic. Allow it to stand while you prepare the rest of the salad.

For the edamame, you have a few options. You can steam it in a steamer or the microwave until the desired doneness is reached, you can rinse the beans under some hot water for about a minute or two, or you can briefly rinse the beans and then toss them with the hot quinoa when it is done cooking–it just depends on how done you prefer your edamame. Whichever option you choose, you’ll toss the beans with the green onions and the cooked quinoa. Toss with the dressing and then season to taste. Garnish with fresh peanuts and enjoy! Makes a lot–like 18-20 small servings.