If I have had the pleasure to cook for you (my favorite thing in the world), you know I’m usually throwing down some healthy mediterranean food.

I fell in love with mediterranean food at 9 years old (thanks Mom), and this life long love affair with it has influenced my relationship with food as a chef and as a person pursuing optimal health.

No I don’t cook mediterranean food exclusively, but it’s very intuitive for me. It’s a part of me. We share a mutual love and understanding for each other…when I develop a recipe, there is often a mediterranean influence. It’s my love language (that and gifts…sorry babe).

I’m not gonna lie, quinoa is not my go to carb. On it’s own it tastes like dirt. I don’t care how good for me it may be…I have to transform it completely or else I will stare at it on my plate with sadness.

I gave myself a little challenge…

How would I make quinoa palatable for someone who doesn’t love it…including me?

If you understand the quinoa struggle, or you are looking for a fun and flavorful way to enjoy it (that won’t make you feel like your’e eating dirt)

This recipe is it for you .

Bright Lemony notes, crisp cucumbers, sweet tomatoes, fresh herbs, briny feta, salty kalamatas elevate this bowl of quinoa from bleh to f*ck ya!.

Im telling you…it’s a game changer.

And the best part…

It works for summertime BBQ’s, picnics and potlucks, for quick and easy meal prep, and as a healthy inexpensive family friendly side (my 3 year old LOVES it)…

Plus….

It’s healthy and easy, clean, gluten free, and vegetarian for my meatless friends  (it pairs well with marinated tofu kabobs…stay tuned-coming soon)

With 4g Protein; 18g Carbs; 6g Fat and 139 calories per 1 cup serving…
you can feel good about what you are eating when you are out being social, focused and disciplined on a plan, or just trying to feed your family something a little healthier without them knowing it.

Being totally transparent because we are friends…

I don’t love quinoa on it’s own, but I love it like this. It’s currently a thing in our household…and it makes me feel good to serve/eat something that supports my weight loss goals without disrupting what’s normal for my family. My weight loss pursuits are mine…not theirs.