Quinoa w/ Mango and Raisins.

For the past couple years, I’ve tried to get on the quinoa bandwagon. It seems quinoa keeps popping up everywhere! As a side dish, in meatloaf, as a coating for fried or baked meats…you name it. If you’ve never had it before, it’s a small grain similar to cous cous and is a great source of dietary fiber as well as being gluten-free.

I’ve had it prepared numerous ways–some I liked and some I didn’t like. A few weeks ago I was in Whole Foods and noticed an interesting quinoa salad full of  mango, cilantro, peppers and raisins. I decided to grab a small container to go, not really sure if I would like it.

Oh, my word. It was delicious!

I now realize that I really enjoy quinoa when it takes a backseat to bigger, bolder flavors. And let me tell you, this dish is not lacking in flavor! It’s a great source of protein, Vitamin C and healthy fats. It’s also gluten free and diabetic friendly. It’s a dish that just about anyone can enjoy!

Try serving it alongside grilled fish or add diced chicken to make it a one dish meal. Enjoy!

Quinoa with Mango and Raisins

Inspired by Whole Foods

{ Serves 4-6 }

1 TBS cilantro

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

2 tsp. coarse sea salt

1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

few cracks of fresh black pepper

Juice from 2 limes

1/2 cup olive oil

2 cups cooked quinoa

1 red pepper, diced

1 yellow pepper, diced

1 mango, diced

1 small red onion, diced

1/4 cup raisins

1/4 cup raw, toasted nuts

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Blend first 6 ingredients together. Slowly drizzle in olive oil until well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasonings.

Add half of the dressing mixture to the quinoa. Stir well and let sit for a few minutes.

Add remaining ingredients to the quinoa mixture, along with the remaining dressing. Toss well to combine and serve!