Spinach-Quinoa Salad with Cherries and Almonds

Perfect for picnics because it's filling and won't get soggy. Also works well with couscous or bulgur.

• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1 1/2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups spinach leaves
• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved, or 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
• 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/3-inch dice (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1 15-oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
• 1/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt
• 3 T. olive oil
• 2 T. fresh lemon juice
• 1 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 t.)

1. Preheat oven to 350F. Spread almonds on baking sheet and toast 7 to 10 minutes, shaking pan occasionally, or until golden brown. Cool.

2. Bring 3 cups salted water to a boil in pot over medium-high heat. Stir in quinoa. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 15 minutes, or until all liquid has been absorbed.

3. Remove from heat and cool, covered, in pot.

4. Cut spinach into chiffonade.

5. Toss together quinoa, almonds, spinach, cherries, cucumber, chickpeas, and red onion in large serving bowl. Whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic in a small bowl. Pour over salad and toss to coat. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Chill 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop, then serve.

Serves 6

Per serving: 352 cal; 11g protein; 12.5g total fat; 52g carb; 492mg sodium; 8g fiber

from Wild Oats magazine