QUINOA PILAF WITH VEGETABLES

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp canola oil
• 1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded carrot
• 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground pepper
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
• 2 tbsp thinly sliced green onion
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp grated lemon peel

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add quinoa and cook, stirring frequently, until quinoa is lightly toasted and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add celery, red pepper, carrot and shallots; sauté for 3 minutes. Stir in broth and pepper. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is tender, about 20 - 25 minutes. Remove from heat. Let stand, covered, for 10 minutes.
3. Fluff quinoa with a fork. Stir in pine nuts, green onion, parsley, lemon juice and lemon peel. Serve immediately.