5-INGREDIENT QUINOA SALAD WITH EDAMAME AND CARROTS

5-Ingredient Quinoa Salad with Edamame and Carrots image

While this gluten-free salad is complete as is, it also serves as a canvas for other ingredients if you want to make a grain-and-vegetable bowl, a quick and easy lunchtime favorite. One tasty option includes serving it on top of a handful of fresh baby spinach and sprinkling with toasted sliced almonds or sesame seeds. If you have cooked-vegetable leftovers, toss those on, too, as well as any random garnishes you have on hand, like chopped scallions, fresh cilantro or fresh-squeezed lime.

Provided by Michelle Dudash

Time 50m

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 5

Ingredients

3/4 cup dry quinoa
1 1/4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup frozen shelled edamame
1 tablespoon dark sesame oil
1/2 cup shredded carrots

Steps:

Put the quinoa in a medium pot and cover with cold water; let soak 5 minutes. Drain thoroughly through a fine-mesh strainer and put it back in the pot.
Add the broth to the quinoa and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover and cook for 12 minutes. Sprinkle in the edamame in an even layer and add a pinch of salt. Cover and continue to cook, 3 more minutes. Remove from the heat without disturbing the lid, and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Transfer the quinoa to a large plate and scatter the edamame on top; drizzle with the oil. Spread in an even layer with a wooden spoon, drawing lines in it to cool it quickly.
Transfer the cooled quinoa to a large bowl and add the carrots. Season with 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Serve warm or chill at least 2 hours, or until ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 115, Fat 4 grams, SaturatedFat 0 grams, Cholesterol 0 milligrams, Sodium 55 milligrams, Carbohydrate 16 grams, Fiber 3 grams, Protein 5 grams