Summerland Quinoa Salad

I have found the perfect salad for all of the vegetarians out there, and it can easily become a vegan favorite too! My brother-in-law, Brett, made this for dinner one night this summer and it was an absolute hit. The unusual flavor combinations work so well together. Strawberries with salt and pepper. Dried cranberries and Swiss cheese. This will soon become your favorite way to have quinoa.  This dish can be served hot as satisfying side dish, or cooled as a protein packed salad. The best part is that it took me 20 minutes to make, start to finish!

Summerland Quinoa Salad

2 cups cooked quinoa

1 cup strawberries

2 stalks celery

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup Swiss cheese, grated

1/2 teaspoon Sea salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

Olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh parsley

*to make vegan, leave out Swiss cheese :)

Rinse and dry celery and strawberries. Cut celery in half length wise, and then chop into small pieces. Slice strawberries into thin pieces. 

Place into a large bowl, along with dried cranberries, Swiss cheese,  salt, pepper, and olive oil. Chop parsley and add to bowl. 

Cook quinoa and allow to cool slightly. Add to bowl and toss to combine. Top with fresh parsley or chives.