Quinoa Butternut Squash Salad

Quinoa Butternut Squash Salad

With Macerona almonds, red onions, and parsley
Quinoa is a nutritious whole grain that is high in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. It is also gluten-free and has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for people with gluten intolerance or diabetes. Additionally, quinoa contains antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds that have been linked to various health benefits, such as improved blood sugar control, heart health, and digestion. In addition, butternut squash is low in calories but high in many nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 small butternut squash, diced into 1/2 inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup chopped Macerona almonds
  • 1/4 cup crumbled vegan feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup minced red onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

For the dressing-

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar
  • ½ lemon, freshly squeezed
  • Salt and cayenne pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Peel the butternut squash, remove the seeds, and cut it into1-inch cubes, or buy the squash cut up and cut into 1/2 inch squares. Rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. Bring the quinoa and 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
  • While that's cooking, heat on high heat the 2 tablespoons olive oil in a saute pan adding the butternut squash. Toss around and reduce heat to medium and cover cooking for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. 
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, butternut squash, red onions,  chopped Macerona almonds, crumbled vegan feta, and chopped parsley.
    To make the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, seasoned rice vinegar, lemon, salt, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  • Serve the salad warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!