Garden Fresh Summer Quinoa Salad

Step 1

To a large skillet or saucepan, add the olive oil, sweet Vidalia onions, and cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until onions have softened and just begin to lightly caramelize, about 7 minutes.

Step 2

Add the quinoa and stir it into the onions and let it toast for about 30 seconds.

Step 3

Add the water, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, stir to combine, reduce the heat to low, cover pan, and cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until all liquid has been absorbed. While quinoa cooks, chop the remaining ingredients.

Step 4

To a very large bowl, add the green onions, nectarines, corn (I don’t cook it and slice it into the bowl directly from the cob), cucumber, tomatoes, basil, season with salt and pepper to taste (I used about 1/2 teaspoon of each), and stir to combine.

Step 5

Add the quinoa and stir to combine.

Step 6

Taste and check for seasoning balance, adding salt, pepper, and an optional pinch of sugar to taste.