Spinach and Quinoa Salad

If not using pre-rinsed quinoa, place in a fine mesh strainer and run under cold water for a minute or two to wash away the saponin (or else the quinoa will taste bitter). Add rinsed quinoa and ½ cup of water to a small sauce pan and simmer over medium heat until water is absorbed (10-15 minutes). There will be little spirals and the quinoa will look semi-translucent.

While your quinoa is cooking, go ahead and throw the goat cheese and cranberries onto the spinach.

To make the dressing, combine vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt and pepper in a small bowl and whisk to combine.

When quinoa is finished cooking, spoon over salad, and dress as desired with balsamic vinaigrette.