Jason and I used to make pasta salads all the time during the summer. I decided to do a healthier twist on a pasta salad by using quinoa. I had some fresh grape tomatoes on hand and a garden full of basil and oregano, hence the " Italian Style ." I'm fairly certain basil and tomatoes were made for each other. I wanted the dressing to be bright and fresh to compliment the fresh herbs and tomatoes, so I used lemon zest and juice to bring out the flavors of the herbs. I also decided to add in re-hydrated sundried tomatoes for an extra tang. This is really easy to put together and would be fantastic to take to a summer picnic or family gathering. You could also serve it as a side dish to a grilled meat or non-meat protein of choice. Italian Style Quinoa Salad Ingredients: 1 cup red quinoa 2 cups water 1 container grape or cherry tomatoes, 1 can cannelini beans Zest and juice of 1 lemon 1/2 tbsp minced garlic 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar (or to desired consistency...
Finding my happy place in the day-to-day.