Heart-Healthy Citrus Quinoa Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (or almonds)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1 orange, peeled and segmented
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Quinoa:
   • Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
   • In a medium pot, bring the 2 cups of water to a boil.
   • Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.
   • Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow it to cool.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and walnuts.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   • Add the cooled quinoa and orange segments to the large bowl with the vegetables.
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
   • Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese if using.
5. Serve:
   • Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld.

This salad is rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber, all of which are great for maintaining strong blood vessels and managing cholesterol levels. Enjoy!