1. Bring quinoa, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 1/4 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until quinoa is tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
2. Meanwhile, whisk lemon juice and garlic in a small bowl. Gradually whisk in the poppy seed oil or raw black sesame seed oil. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper.
3. Spread out quinoa on a large baking sheet to let cool. Or transfer to a large bowl to let cool then mix in 1/4 cup dressing.
4. Add cucumber, tomatoes, herbs, and scallions to bowl with quinoa. Gently toss and mix well.
5. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Drizzle remaining dressing on top.

Manfred’s Tip:

Instead of adding a lot of black pepper and salt, add some fresh Ostro Organics chili oil before serving. Jalapeno and Cayenne Chili Oil add a very pleasant heat and distinct flavor that pairs well with the fresh herbs. Give it a try!

For those of you who like it very hot – add some Ostro Organics Scorpion Chili Oil, make every day a chili day 😉

Our Favorite Variations:

• Add fresh arugula or baby-kale
• Use fresh lime instead of lemon juice
• Add fresh avocado and grilled salmon to make it a full meal
• Adding fresh corn off the cob – a summer highlight
• As mentioned below, substitute quinoa with rice or lentils.
• Mix-in fresh fruit like blueberries or strawberries.