Green Onion + Dill Quinoa

Quinoa is a staple pantry item in our house. It's the healthier of the grains and is packed with protein which is an added bonus. I love using quinoa as a salad base. I toss it with fresh chopped vegetables and a simple vinaigrette of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper and fresh herbs. I always make extra so that I have a few days of lunches to enjoy, too. For those of you who make your own baby food, I also mix quinoa into Will's vegetable purees and he loves it!

This quick and simple quinoa dish has quickly become a Summer favorite around here. It makes a tasty side paired with grilled meat and veggies and can be made ahead to serve cold, or at room temperature. In fact, if it sits for a bit, the flavor only gets better. Fresh dill makes all the difference. A bed of this topped with a piece of cedar plank grilled Salmon would be divine. 

Green Onion + Dill Quinoa
recipe from Cooking Light

1 cup uncooked quinoa
2 cups water
1/4 cup chopped green onions
3 Tbsp. chopped fresh dill
2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1/2 tsp. minced fresh garlic
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper

Rinse and drain quinoa. In a heavy bottom saucepan on medium-high heat, combine water and quinoa. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until all water is absorbed and the quinoa can be fluffed with a fork. Stir in green onions and dill. 

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Pour over quinoa and mix together. Serve at room temperature or chill in the refrigerator.