Moroccan Quinoa Salad

While searching for something to whip together for dinner, and as a way to use up a bunch of fresh herbs I had on hand, I came up with this recipe and was extremely pleased with the results! I've made it several times since and my family loves it! Very light and flavorful! Enjoy as is or serve along with grilled chicken.

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Calories: 575 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 ¼ cups raisins
• 2 cups hot water
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
• ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil
• ⅓ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 (29 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained
• ⅓ cup chopped fresh mint
• lemon, juiced
• 3 shallots, diced
• 2 cups red quinoa

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the garlic and shallots; cook and stir until the shallots have softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cumin, ginger, and cinnamon. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute more. Add the chicken broth and quinoa, and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, about 20 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, place raisins in a bowl and cover with hot water. Soak until the raisins soften and plump up, about 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

Fluff the quinoa with a fork and stir in the lemon juice. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Stir in the garbanzo beans, raisins, carrots, parsley, basil, and mint. Serve at room temperature or chilled.