IDEAL PROTEIN PHASE 3 | SERVINGS: 4 | TOTAL TIME: 45 MIN

Cucumbers are amazing for the skin!  They are hydrating and support the collagen in the skin to tighten, firming up the outer layer. Cucumbers contain antioxidants and deliver anti-inflammatory benefits.  They also contain many vitamins and minerals, like B vitamins, Vitamin C, zinc, iron, folic acid, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Try to purchase organic cucumbers as it allows you to leave the skin which contains many of the minerals (and helps to digest the seeds better).

This quinoa salad is refreshing, crisp and delicious and Ideal Protein phase 2 and 3 friendly. Give it a try!

Ingredients:

1/3 cups of dry quinoa = 1 cup cooked quinoa

2 cups frozen shelled edamame, thawed

1 cup sweet corn

1 1/2 cup chopped cherry tomatoes

4 cups chopped cucumber

1/2 cup chopped red onion

4 cups Spring Mix Lettuce

Dressing:

Juice of 1 lemon

2 tbs olive oil

1 avocado (mashed)

A pinch of cayenne pepper (or other spice you like)

garlic, salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

Soak the quinoa in 2 cups of water overnight (this helps to eliminate the saponins and activate enzymes in the quinoa, which makes it more easily digested.)  

When you are ready to cook, rinse the quinoa until the water runs clear. This will remove all the fermentation liquid and the bitter saponins.  Cook in 2/3 cup of water for about 10-15min.  Drain any excess liquid and fluff with a fork.  Reserve for later.

In a big bowl, mix the cucumbers, edamame and the other vegetables together.

Mix all the dressing ingredients together. 

Add the quinoa to the vegetable mix.  Then pour the dressing and mix well.

Divide in 4 containers then add some Spring mix on top.

When you are ready to eat, mix everything together. 

You can also add 1 serving of nuts or seeds on top to increase your healthy fat serving for the day. Also, you can add more protein. 

Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Each serving contains: Protein – 0.5, Fat – 2, Net Carbs – 15, Ideal Protein Phase 1 vegetables -2 cups.