Wild Rice and Quinoa Salad

1/2 cup wild rice 3 tablespoons canola or olive oil
3 1/2 cups water 1 tablespoon red wine (or balsamic) vinegar
1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed and well drained 1 teaspoon dried thyme
3 or 4 whole scallions, trimmed and chopped 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
2 or 3 cloves garlic, minced (optional) 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup roasted sweet red peppers, diced 1/2 teaspoon salt
2 to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

    In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice and 1 1/2 cups of the water and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Stir the grains, cover, and cook over medium-low heat until the rice is tender, 40-45 minutes. Drain and set aside.

    Meanwhile, in another medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and the remaining 2 cups of water and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Stir the grains, cover, and cook over medium-low heat until all of the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Fluff and set aside.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the wild rice, quinoa, scallions, garlic, roasted peppers and parsley or cilantro. In a small bowl or measuring cup combine the oil, vinegar, thyme, mustard, pepper, and salt until blended. Pour dressing over rice mixture and mix well. Chill the salad for at least 1 hour before serving.

Note: Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) can be found in most health food stores in the bulk foods section. Nutritionally, quinoa might be considered a supergrain. It is not a true grain, but it looks like one and has similar uses. It offers more iron than other grains, contains high levels of potassium and riboflavin, and has excellent reserves of protein. The best way to rinse quinoa is to place it in a fine strainer and hold it under cold running water until the water runs clear, then set aside to drain well.

*Variation: Use half quinoa and half couscous, add some capers or cooked shrimp, etc. Be as creative as you like.

We discovered this excellent recipe in 150 Vegan Favorites by Jay Solomon. We highly recommend this book if you are looking for delicious, and relatively easy, healthful recipes.