Ooh-la-la (Very French) Quinoa Salad (Vegan, Gluten Free)

Ooh-la-la(So Very French) 

Quinoa Salad

ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 2 cup water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 medium carrots, shredded
• 6 scallions, sliced thin
• 1/2 cup golden raisins
• 1 orange, juice, zest and segments
• 2 whole cardamom seeds, crushed lightly 
• juice from 1 large lemon
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
• salt and pepper to taste  

preparation steps:

1. rinse quinoa very well-to remove bitterness-then drain well

2. place quinoa in pan and toast on medium heat-stirring often to prevent burning

3. add water and salt and bring to boil, cover and reduce heat to low, simmer for about 20 minutes-or until all liquid has been absorbed

4. set quinoa aside to cool

5. zest orange, remove peel and cut orange segments from membrane and squeeze juice from membrane and place all in a mixing bowl with shredded carrots, golden raisins, sliced scallions, crushed cardamom seeds, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt and pepper-add slivered almonds last and toss all together with quinoa

6. refrigerate at least 1 hour

7. serve cold