Mediterranean Quinoa

We tend to post quite a few make-ahead main dishes around here.  But, let's not forget about the importance of make-ahead sides.  Often, preparing a healthy side dish can be just as time-consuming as making a main dish from scratch.  Here is a great side dish that you can make ahead.  Its versatility makes it a match for your favorite summer main dishes.  Try pairing this dish with our Agave Citrus Kebab Medley.  Simply use this quinoa as a bed for the kebab meat and veggies, and you have what may be the perfect summertime meal!  I guarantee both family and guests will be impressed.

Presenting your food so that it looks delicious is
just as important as making food that is delicious.
I love this serving bowl from Target.com ($14.99)
because it's versatile, making a great presentation
at formal get-togethers and backyard
barbecues alike.

Ingredients
2 c uncooked quinoa
2 tbsp olive oil
1/3 c minced shallot
2 tbsp minced garlic
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 lemon
1 c canned black beans
1 c crumbled feta cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground black pepper
1/4 c olive oil

Make-Ahead Preparation

• Cook quinoa according to these directions:  How To Cook Quinoa Perfectly.  I strongly recommend using these directions rather than the package directions, as this will make a much less bitter and less mushy quinoa that is full of delicious flavor.  This recipe provides options for substituting liquids such as chicken broth when cooking quinoa; for this recipe, use only water to cook the quinoa.  Once cooked and cooled, place quinoa in freezer bag.
• Heat olive oil in medium pan.  Sautee shallot, garlic, and bell pepper lightly, until softened.  Add to bag with quinoa.
• Add black beans, feta, salt, and pepper to quinoa bag.
• Mix all ingredients in bag and freeze.
• Juice the lemon with a coarse strainer, removing seeds but leaving any pulp; place in a new freezer container or bag.  
• Using a fine grater, remove the lemon zest and add zest to lemon juice container.  Freeze lemon juice mixture.

To Serve

• Thaw completely.  
• Whisk together the lemon juice mixture and the remaining 1/4 c olive oil.  Pour dressing over quinoa and stir.

This side dish tastes great when served cold, so it is the perfect side for those warm summer days. Or, top with shrimp or grilled chicken to make it a whole meal!

This side dish also pairs well with:
Jack Daniels Glazed Ribs
Lemon Pepper Cod
Grandma Peterson's Flank Steak Marinade
This dish is also a part of our series on make-ahead food for camping trips.