Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Quinoa and Kale Salad


Ingredients:
1 C Quinoa
1 bunch kale (lacinato or curly --- I also use swiss chard or any other hearty green if I don't have kale on hand)
Handful dried cherries, currants, or cranberries given a rough chop
For Vinaigrette (I don't really measure)
shallot (minced)
red wine vinegar
Mustard
Olive Oil
Salt

Simmer in covered pot 1 cup quinoa in 1 1/4 cup water until water is absorbed (this is less than the normal 2 cups because you don't want the quinoa mushy). Fluff with fork and remove lid to let quinoa begin to cool.
Meanwhile de-stem the kale and cut it into small strips (chiffonade) and wash in a salad spinner.
Make dressing by adding mustard, shallot, vinegar, and salt to a jar and shaking until mixed. Let sit for a few minutes, taste, and if all's well then add olive oil and shake again.
Combine quinoa, kale, chopped dried fruit in bowl and toss with dressing to taste!
I serve this at room temp, but it is still great cold the next day!