Quinoa with Greek Vinaigrette

I believe that one of the triggers for Hidradenitis Suppurativa are toxins that we put into our bodies.  Consuming foods and drinks that are toxic can cause a plethora of diseases.  Feeding our bodies with healthy nutrients is a good way to begin the detoxification process.  I will be doing a post in the near future on foods that help eliminate toxins from our body such as cucumber and broccoli (in the recipe below).  In the meantime, here is a healthy quinoa recipe for you to enjoy!

On Saturday, I posted a Greek Vinaigrette Dressing.  This recipe uses the same Greek vinaigrette dressing.  This weekend we took this side over to our friend's house for a barbecue.  My friend's hubby loves this stuff!

Ingredients

1 cup Quinoa

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 head of broccoli, florets

1 cucumber, chopped

1/2 cup Greek vinaigrette dressing

Greek Vinaigrette Dressing

1 cup red wine vinegar
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp. basil
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. onion powder
1 1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. oregano
1 tsp. sea salt
Juice from 1/2 lemon

• Prepare quinoa according to package.  Combine all ingredients and Greek vinaigrette dressing.  Mix well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.  Enjoy! 

Quinoa: Quinoa is high in anti-inflammatory phytonutrients and minerals such as manganese and magnesium.  The anti-inflammatory properties in quinoa make it beneficial in disease treatment and prevention.  Quinoa is a complete source of protein containing all nine essential amino acids.

Red Bell Pepper:  Red bell peppers are high in antioxidants which help boost the immune system, as well as supporting tissue health.  It is suggested that eating a diet high in antioxidants will help reduce inflammation.  Red bell peppers also contain carotenoids which help support the immune system.

Broccoli: Broccoli contains phytonutrients known as glucosinolates which helps the body detox.  Broccoli is also rich in a flavonoid called kaempferol which has anti-inflammatory properties.  

Cucumber:  Cucumbers are made up majority of water which helps keep the body hydrated as well as helping us remove toxins.  Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins (with the skin on) such as vitamins A, B and C which helps boost the immune system.  

Greek Vinaigrette Dressing

Red Wine Vinegar:  Red wine vinegar may help balance your blood insulin levels.  Red wine vinegar also assists with digestion allowing your body to absorb vitamins and minerals.  It is also known to help with inflammation.  

Extra Virgin Olive Oil:  Extra virgin olive oils have a phytonutrient called oleocanthal.  Studies have shown this natural phenolic compound reduces inflammation.  Extra virgin olive oils are also rich in antioxidants.

Basil:  Basil is known to reduce inflammation and swelling.  It contains an oil eugenol which are known to have anti-inflammatory properties.  Basil is also rich in antioxidants which help support the immune system.

Oregano: Oregano contains rosmarinic which is an antioxidant.  Oregano is also a good source of fiber, vitamins such as vitamin K and minerals such as manganese.

Lemon: Lemons are known to remove toxins from the body.  They help cleanse the kidneys and the digestive system.  They also strengthen the immune system which helps fight many illnesses.

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