Quinoa Salad with Peach Dressing

2 cups cooked quinoa

1 T. chopped basil

¼ cup shredded carrots

1/3 cup toasted walnuts

¼ cup chopped raisins

1/3 cup purple cabbage, chopped

½ nectarine chopped fine

1. Mix all ingredients together in bowl

Sauce:

2 medium or 1 large peach (no need to peel)

¼ - ½ cup of olive oil

2 T. Mirin

¼ cup rice vinegar

½ inch peeled ginger

1 T. Cilantro

Juice of one lime

Dash of paprika

Salt to taste

Optional: jalapeno or green chiles

2. Place ingredients in blender or food processor and blend. Toss dressing with Quinoa mixture.

Quinoa is a protein rich seed that has a fluffy, creamy, slightly crunchy texture and somewhat of a nutty flavor. Not only is quinoa high in protein, but the protein it supplies is complete protein, meaning that it includes all nine essential amino acids. Not only is quinoa's amino acid profile well balanced but quinoa is especially well-endowed with the amino acid lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair. In addition to protein, quinoa features a host of other health-building nutrients. Because quinoa is a very good source of manganese as well as a good source of magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus, this "grain" may be especially valuable for persons with migraine headaches, diabetes and atherosclerosis. Quinoa is available in your local health food stores throughout the year.

Source: www.whfoods.com