Trail Mix Spinach Salad with Quinoa & Cheese

Sometimes my food ideas come from strange places and motivations.

Yesterday I realized I needed to post one more Laughing Cow idea this month. So I wanted to come up a with a fun cheese inspired lunch. Then I opened the pantry and saw the quinoa. I don't know why I don't use it more, it's SO good! My brain starts churning…

Why not cook some up, and toss with a cube of cheese. Oh! I know I'll add in some dried cranberries. They go so good with Mini Babybel Light. Oh poo! Only a few dried cranberries left. Hmmm I can add a couple of raisins to make up the difference. You know what goes good with cheese and raisins? Sunflower seeds. Hey this is starting to sound like trail mix. Why don't I add in some almonds. Oh look at that! I have dried apricots!

Before I knew it I was eating this…

And it was out of this world good!

Every bite was like a little surprise. Sometimes a creamy cube of cheese, sometimes a sweet raisin, sometimes both! The texture of quinoa coated spinach leaves with my simple dressing was great by itself but the variety of textures and flavors was a fun twist.

Here's what I did.

Put the quinoa and broth in a small pot over high heat. Bring to a boil, then cover and lower to a simmer.

While that's cooking prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Place the spinach, vinegars, honey and pinch of salt in a bowl. Once all the broth is absorbed by the quinoa, add it to the bowl of spinach and toss. The leaves will wilt a little and everything will be coated in the dressing.

Add the dried fruit, seeds and nuts.

Toss everything together and enjoy!