Dandelion Greens Quinoa Salad with Beets and Goat Cheese

1 cup uncooked quinoa

½ cup shelled, dry roasted pistachios

½ cup packed fresh basil

Zest of 2 lemons

3 cloves of garlic

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon avocado oil

8 ounces beets, diced

1 large bunch dandelion greens, finely chopped

4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled

2 tablespoons finely sliced fresh basil

Cook quinoa according to package directions. Spread in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet to cool. Set aside.

In the bowl of a food processor, combine the pistachios, ½ cup basil, lemon zest, garlic, and extra-virgin olive oil. Pulse to create a coarse pesto.

Heat the avocado oil over medium heat in a large skillet with a lid. Add the beets and cover. Sauté, covered, for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beets are tender and beginning to turn golden brown. Uncover and set aside to cool.

Bring a large pot of water to boil then add the dandelion greens. Blanch for 2–3 minutes, until crisp-tender.

Drain, run under cold water to stop cooking, and cool. Drain and spin-dry or dry well on a clean towel.

Return the greens to the empty pot.

Add the cooled quinoa to the pot with the greens. Add the pesto and stir to combine. Spread the quinoa and greens in a shallow serving bowl and top with beets, goat cheese, and sliced basil. Serve at room temperature.

From Issue

No. 05 / Summer 2018