Smoky quinoa and bacon salad

Indulge in the rich flavors of smoky quinoa mixed with crispy bacon in this irresistible salad. Perfect for those looking for a savory and satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 2 cups water
• Pinch of kosher or sea salt
• 8 pieces of bacon
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon spicy brown mustard
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground chipotle
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
• Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley

Instructions:

1. Mix together the quinoa, water, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and cover the saucepan.
2. Let the mixture simmer gently, covered, for about 15 minutes (there might be some water left). Remove the saucepan from the heat.
3. Let the covered saucepan sit for 5 minutes until all the remaining water is absorbed. Uncover and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Leave it to cool.
4. Crunch up the bacon, drain it, and then cut it into 1-inch pieces. Set it aside.
5. In a separate bowl, blend the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chipotle, salt, and pepper. Set it aside.
6. In a big bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, bacon, red onion, and parsley. Toss the salad with the prepared dressing and serve it either at room temperature or cold.

Summary:

• Calories: 2088 kcal
• Fat: 151 g
• Protein: 58 g
• Carbs: 125 g
• Potassium: 1688 mg
• Magnesium: 396 mg