EASY
VEGAN
OIL-FREE
REFINED SUGAR-FREE
ORGANIC
BUDGET-FRIENDLY
30 MINUTES OR LESS*

Here is plant power on a plate.  The ultimate summer salad go-to.  It's quick & easy to make - 'cause that's how most of us need to roll - packs well for the office or a picnic, and leftovers are good the next day.  When a dish is this loaded with veggies, it's loaded with fiber and micronutrients, and with the quinoa thrown in, protein is covered.  And more fiber, of course.  Plus it's pretty, has a delicious bright lemony flavor,  is enough to be a meal, and provides a satisfying crunch.  *And, if you have the quinoa and date syrup ready to go in your fridge (I try to keep a batch of each on hand most of the time), it's ready in about 10 minutes.  Yep, this dish has it all:  Lemony Fennel Slaw Over Quinoa.

Fennel

Not so sure you're crazy about fennel?  It's true that fennel has a distinct flavor similar to black licorice, and if you're like me (definitely not a fan of black licorice), you may not be drawn to fennel.  And to that I say:  Give this a try anyway.  Balanced with mint & cilantro, cabbage & lemon, the fennel provides a truly lovely addition.  I am now a fan (though I still don't like black licorice.  Not even a little bit).  And did you know it provides, among other benefits, calcium and iron?  A great way to get those nutrients in.

A wonderful thing about fennel, besides it's natural beauty, is that you can eat the whole thing.  The bulb is crisp and fulfilling, while the fronds work like an herb, providing a lovely soft texture and flavor. 

Quinoa

A superfood that's delicious and filling, it's hard to beat my grain of choice for this dish:  quinoa.  If you're curious about quinoa's benefits and background, check out this detailed article by Helen Nichols at Well-Being Secrets:  http://www.well-beingsecrets.com/health-benefits-of-quinoa/

While the slaw is served over quinoa for this dish, it also stands on its own nicely as a coleslaw, is wonderful simply on crackers or tortilla chips, and works really well in a wrap or on a sandwich.  You could also add avocado and be really happy with the addition.  A big winner for your next potluck!

Lemony Fennel Slaw Over Quinoa

EASY
VEGAN
OIL-FREE
REFINED SUGAR-FREE                                            Click to Print
ORGANIC
BUDGET-FRIENDLY
30 MINUTES OR LESS* 

*with quinoa and date syrup on-hand

SERVES:  4 mains or 8 sides

Pre-soak/Cook Time for dates:  at least 2 hours  quinoa:  about 15 minutes
Prep Time:  about 10 minutes

*Date syrup:  
Soak 6 dates in 1 cup water for at least 2 hours.  Blend until smooth.  I like to always have some on hand in the fridge, making dishes like this very quick & easy.  

**Quinoa:  Cook according to package instructions.  Generally, 1 cup dry quinoa to 2 cups water or broth brought to a boil, then simmer about 15 minutes.  I also use quinoa often, and usually keep a batch ready in the fridge.

I use organic ingredients whenever possible for more nutrients, flavor, fewer toxins, and to support organic farmers.  It’s what I want in the world, so I vote with my dollar.  Experiment:  If money that would normally be spent on processed foods went to the best organic, fresh, real food ingredients available, notice if your body prefers the change.  Real food can be quick, easy, and even fun to make, like this recipe.