NATURAL WHITE QUINOA

Herby Quinoa with Lemon and Shallots

Ingredients:

1 to 2 shallots, thinly sliced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 ½ cups white quinoa, rinsed and drained; 2 ¼ cups water; 1 tsp salt; 1 ½ tsp cumin; 1 to 2 minced garlic cloves; 1 tsp dried oregano

Garnish:

Lemon zest from one small lemon; a sprinkling of fresh herbs like Italian parsley, dill, cilantro, and basil; 2 tbsp slivered almonds; crispy shallots; a drizzle of olive oil

Instructions:

• Take a medium pot and, over medium heat, sauté the shallot in the oil, until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. If you want, set half aside for the garnish.

• Add rinsed quinoa, water, salt, cumin, garlic minced, and dried herbs, and give a good stir. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover well, and cook for 15 minutes.

• Check to see that quinoa has soaked up all the water.  If not, continue cooking for 2-5 more minutes. If it has, turn the heat off and let it sit covered for 5-10 more minutes.

• Fluff with a fork, place in a serving bowl and toss gently with lemon zest, sprinkle with fresh herbs and, sauteed shallots and optional nuts. Don’t over mix.

• For extra richness, a drizzle of good quality olive oil is a delicious nice touch.