Vibrant Pea and Quinoa Salad

Ingredients

• Quinoa (1 cup, rinsed)
• Frozen peas (1 cup)
• Cucumber (1 medium, diced)
• Red bell pepper (1 medium, diced)
• Red onion (1/4 cup, finely chopped)
• Fresh mint leaves (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. While the quinoa is cooling, prepare the vegetables: dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion and fresh mint leaves.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, frozen peas, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh mint leaves.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create a dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and gently toss to combine all the ingredients evenly.
6. For optimal flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld together.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired, and enjoy!