Mexican Quinoa Salad, Pumpkin Seeds, Cilantro

Small in size, but full of nutrition, seeds – May’s functional food – are a plant-based source of protein and heart healthy, unsaturated fats. They also contain phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals that are linked with a reduced risk of chronic disease.

Thanks to pepitas, or hulled pumpkin seeds, and whole grain quinoa, Mexican Quinoa Salad, Pumpkin Seeds, Cilantro packs a hefty dose protein and a fair amount of fiber into a small serving size.

Try it warm. Try it cold. Try it on its own or inside tacos. Our recipe for Mexican Quinoa Salad is versatile and will add bright color and flavor to any plate.

Mexican Quinoa Salad, Pumpkin Seeds, Cilantro

Try it warm. Try it cold. Try it on its own or inside tacos. Our recipe for Mexican Quinoa Salad, Pumpkin Seeds, Cilantro is versatile and will add bright color and flavor to any plate.

Serving size: 1/2 cup, Makes 10 servings

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups dry quinoa

2 2/3 cups water

3/4 cups hulled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

2 1/2 ounces fresh cilantro

3/4 ounce garlic cloves

1 ounce chopped jalapeno

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 teaspoons cumin

3 tablespoons canola oil

2 1/4 teaspoon lime juice

1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons chopped red bell peppers

2/3 ounce chopped scallions

Instructions

Rinse quinoa to remove debris. Bring water to a boil, then add quinoa. Bring water back to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until all water has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Chill.
Dry toast the pumpkin seeds in a large skillet until they begin to pop. Remove from heat.
Process toasted pumpkin seeds in a processor with cilantro, garlic, jalapenos, salt and cumin until all ingredients are well minced. Gradually add the oil and lime juice, processing until smooth.
Toss to combine pureed with chilled quinoa, bell peppers and scallions.

Nutrition Info per 1/2 cup serving: 255 calories, 14 g fat, 2 g saturated fat, 60 mg sodium, 24 g carbohydrates, 0 g sugar, 4 g fiber, 10 g protein

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At FLIK Hospitality Group we believe in great food, great service, and great people. Our wellness first approach ensures our food supports healthy and delicious choices, specially curated by our team of culinary experts and registered dietitians. At FLIK, we believe in seasonality in sourcing our ingredients and providing a customized approach to the culinary and hospitality needs of each client. Our dedication to providing quality hospitality service is unparalleled in the industry.

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