Trying to find the time to make healthy meals every day that the whole family will enjoy can sometimes add to the overwhelm when you have so many other things to deal with. That’s why this delicious and balanced recipe is one of my favourites and is a perfect dish for summer that will keep everyone feeling light and energised in the hot weather, while also being satisfying.
Quinoa is a staple in my cupboard, because it’s an amazing superfood for us ladies during this time. This plant-based superfood is high in protein and fibre, but also contains B vitamins and is rich in magnesium, so it helps to stabilise blood sugar levels, as well as balance hormones, and its antioxidants properties help to reduce inflammation. What’s not to like?
Ingredients
- 250g quinoa, cooked
- 2 skinless organic chicken breasts
- 100g organic sundried tomatoes, thinly sliced (or organic cherry tomatoes, if preferred)
- 1 organic small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 organic yellow pepper, diced
- Handful of organic baby kale leaves, chopped
- Small bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
Optional
50g pitted black olives, finely chopped
1/4 organic cucumber, finely chopped
For the dressing
- 1 organic lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp organic extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large organic garlic clove, crushed and minced
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- Himalayan salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the quinoa by simmering in twice the volume of water for 7-10 minutes, then rinse under cold water and drain.
- Grill or pan fry the chicken breasts in a little olive oil, then salt and pepper until cooked through (around 5-7 mins each side). Let rest, then slice.
- Whisk together the dressing ingredients, then in a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa and vegetables before pouring over the salad. Mix well.
- Top with the cooked sliced chicken and serve.
You could also swap the chicken for grilled organic salmon or halloumi cheese for variety. Add a handful of pumpkin seeds for extra zinc (which is also good for hormone support).
I hope you enjoy this delish dish as much as my lot do!!!
Love, Gaynor x
