Red Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is known to be an excellent vegetarian source of protein. It is a good 'energy booster' since it strengthens our digestive system and kidneys.

Quinoa is abundant with calcium, vitamins B and E, and iron. For those of us who want to enrich our blood (anemia or blood deficiency symptoms such as brittle nails, hair loss, thin skin, lack of energy, pale skin, and such), and for those who wish to nourish their skin with vitality, quinoa is a good way to do it with.

In my kitchen, I like to cook red quinoa rather than white because it has a nutty flavor, making things more interesting for my pallet.

Ingredients:

1 cup of red quinoa

2 Tsp of olive oil

2-3 Tsp of tahini made from whole sesame

Cucumber

Lettuce

Baby greens,

Mung bean sprouts

Alfalfa sprouts

Red bell peppers.

How to make Red Quinoa Salad?

1. Cook the quinoa just as you would cook rice - add 1.5- 2 cups of water for each cup of quinoa. Add a pinch of salt (you may add other spices according to your preference).

2. Cut the vegetables.

3. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil and 1-2 tbsp of tahini (mix them all).

4. Add the prepared quinoa to the salad and mix.

The dish can be served hot or cold.

Cooking time for quinoa takes only 20-35 minutes (depending on whether it's white or red); I would advise preparing it in the morning while getting ready for work; that way, you can take it in a container.

** It can be cooked in a rice cooker or a regular pot.

What are the health benefits of each one of these ingredients?

Red Quinoa:

Western view: Red quinoa is rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants. It may help reduce the risk of heart disease and support digestive health. It's also gluten-free and can help stabilize blood sugar levels.

Chinese view: Red quinoa is considered warming and nourishing to Kidney Yang. It strengthens Qi and Blood, supporting overall vitality and energy.

Olive Oil:

Western view: Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It may help reduce inflammation, lower heart disease risk, and support brain health.

Chinese view: Olive oil is moistening and slightly cooling. It nourishes Yin and can help lubricate the intestines, benefiting digestion.

Tahini (from whole sesame):

Western view: Tahini is rich in healthy fats, protein, and minerals like calcium and iron. It may support bone health and provide antioxidant benefits.

Chinese view: Sesame seeds nourish the Liver and Kidney Yin, support healthy bones, and help moisten the body's dryness.

Cucumber:

Western view: Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content. They provide vitamins K and C and may help with hydration and digestion.

Chinese view: Cucumber is cooling and helps clear Heat from the body. It benefits the Stomach and Large Intestine by promoting fluid balance.

Lettuce:

Western view: Lettuce is low in calories and high in vitamins A and K. It may support eye health and provide some antioxidant benefits.

Chinese view: Lettuce is cooling and helps clear Heat. It can soothe the Liver and promote relaxation.

Baby Greens:

Western view: Baby greens are nutrient-dense, providing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They may support overall health and reduce disease risk.

Chinese view: Baby greens are generally cooling and help clear Heat. They nourish Blood and support the Liver function.

Mung Bean Sprouts:

Western view: Mung bean sprouts are low in calories and high in vitamins C and K. They may support immune function and bone health.

Chinese view: Mung bean sprouts are cooling and detoxifying. They clear Heat and toxins from the body, benefiting the Stomach and Large Intestine.

Alfalfa Sprouts:

Western view: Alfalfa sprouts are rich in vitamins K and C. They may help lower cholesterol and support bone health.

Chinese view: Alfalfa sprouts are cooling and help clear Heat. They support the Kidney and Liver functions, aiding in detoxification.

Red Bell Peppers:

Western view: Red bell peppers are high in vitamins C and A. They provide antioxidants that may support immune function and eye health.

Chinese view: Red bell peppers are warming and support the Spleen and Stomach. They can help improve digestion and boost energy.

Summary

This colorful and nutritious combination of ingredients offers many benefits from both Western and Chinese medical perspectives.

From a Western viewpoint, this recipe is a powerhouse of nutrients. The red quinoa provides complete protein and fiber, while the olive oil and tahini offer healthy fats. The array of vegetables - cucumber, lettuce, baby greens, sprouts, and red bell peppers - deliver a broad spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This combination supports heart health, aids digestion, boosts the immune system, and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

From a Chinese medicine perspective, this recipe beautifully balances warming and cooling energies. The red quinoa and bell peppers provide warmth and support Qi, while the cooling nature of cucumber, lettuce, and sprouts helps clear excess Heat from the body. This balance promotes overall harmony in the body's systems. The variety of ingredients nourishes Yin and Yang, supports the Liver, Kidney, Spleen, and Stomach functions, and aids in detoxification.

The diverse textures and flavors in this recipe make it enjoyable to eat and ensure a wide range of nutritional benefits. The combination of leafy greens, crunchy vegetables, and protein-rich quinoa creates a satisfying meal that supports overall vitality and well-being.

By choosing this recipe, you're not just satisfying your hunger - you're nourishing your body on multiple levels, supporting your organs, balancing your energy, and providing your system with various essential nutrients. It's a delicious way to invest in your health!

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