Kısır Tabağı

Kısır Tabağı is a refreshing Turkish salad made with fine bulgur, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, served as a light lunch. This gluten-free variation replaces bulgur with quinoa, providing a nutty flavor and a delightful texture.

Ingredients

• Quinoa - 100 grams
• Boiling water - 250 ml
• Tomato - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Cucumber - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Red bell pepper - 1/2, finely chopped
• Green onion - 2, finely sliced
• Parsley - 1/4 cup, finely chopped
• Mint - 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Fresh lemon juice - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Pomegranate molasses - 1 tablespoon (optional)

Steps

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine mesh strainer to remove any bitterness.
2. In a saucepan, bring 250 ml of water to a boil, add the rinsed quinoa, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the quinoa sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff it with a fork and allow it to cool.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomato, cucumber, red bell pepper, green onion, parsley, and mint.
5. Add the cooled quinoa to the bowl with the vegetables.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and pomegranate molasses, if using.
7. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetable mixture, and toss gently to combine until everything is well coated.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbs: 40 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 270 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in plant-based protein from quinoa, promoting muscle health.
• Loaded with fresh vegetables, providing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

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