Quinoa Tabouli

Ok, here's the requested recipe. Granted, it's one I make every Friday at work, and I NEVER thought I would these kinds of foods...vegetarian junk, I mean stuff. I like the flavor, but the quinoa is a little too weird in my mouth. I'm all about texture when it comes to food. Normally, Tabouli is made with bulghur wheat. I'm sure you can just sub out the quinoa for bulghur.

Quinoa Tabouli

1 c. Quinoa

2c. water

3 med. tomatoes, seeded and diced

1/2 cucumber, seeded and diced

1 1/2 c. parsley, coarsely chopped

2 T. fresh mint, chopped

1/3 c. lemon juice

1/3 c. olive oil

1/2 t. salt

Rinse quinoa in cold water, rubbing between fingers to remove bitter, outer layer. Bring 2 c. water to a boil. Add quinoa. Cover and reduce heat. Simmer for 15 min. or until water is absorbed.

Chop veggies and herbs. Place in bowl and add lemon juice, oil, and salt. Stir gently. Add quinoa and gently toss. Allow to refrigerate for a while to blend flavors.

Variations: Substitute Bulghur Wheat for quinoa: Bring 2 c. water to a boil. Remove from heat. Add bulghur; cover, and let stand until water is absorbed (15-20 min.).

Could it be more simple than that? Hope you enjoy it.