Bring 2 cups of water to a boil on the stove in a 4-quart sauce pot with a tight fitting lit.

In another pot bring 2 cups of water to a boil.

While your water is heating, rinse your quinoa in a fine mesh strainer. You want to rinse until the water runs clear.

Once your 2 cups of water are boiling, add your quinoa to the water. Return to a boil and reduce heat. Boil for a total of 17 minutes. (my quinoa package said cook 15-20 minutes. I always cook a few minutes less)

Once your other pot of water is boiling add your green beans. (I use frozen) You want to blanche them for about 3 minutes and then rinse them in cold water.

Chop all of your vegetables and prepare your dressing while your quinoa cooks.

Once your quinoa is finished cooking, return it to the fine mesh strainer. Rinse until the water runs cold. Add quinoa to a large bowl.

Add next 6 ingredients to the salad. Toss to mix.

Then add half of your dressing and finishing missing.

Chill in refrigerator for at least an hour.

This salad can be prepared ahead for food prep, a side dish for dinner, or for a pot luck.