Carrot & Quinoa Sesame Slaw

I started this year off with a vow to make healthier choices. I chose to steer clear of dessert, forgo that glass of wine that I usually have with dinner, drink lots and lots of water, take more vitamins, and exercise.

I did a really great job, for about a week. Then life got in the way. Turns out we’re moving – we’ve been swept up in a whirlwind of packing, apartment hunting and driving between New York and Vermont. Somewhere along the way, many of the intentions I set for 2013 have gone by the wayside. And I’m kicking myself for it.

But eating healthy is something I’m committed to. Having balanced meals is a priority for me. A choice I refuse to give up regardless of what life throws at me.

Which brings me to this delightful Carrot & Quinoa Sesame Slaw. An infusion of Asian flavors, this recipe uses just a few simple ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your cupboard. You’re immediately greeted with a tangy bite of vinegar, that’s quickly followed by the salty sensation of soy sauce and a spicy kick of chili flakes. All tossed with crunchy carrots and fluffy quinoa. This healthy salad is perfect served at lunch or as a side with dinner.

Any way that you choose to enjoy this recipe, you’ll be sticking to your new year’s intentions of healthy eating.

Carrot & Quinoa Sesame Slaw
serves 2

• 3 cups carrots, peeled and grated
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 4 teaspoons gluten-free soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon dry sherry
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Chili flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons black sesame seeds (optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together wet ingredients to form a sauce. Mix in ground ginger and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss together carrots and quinoa. Pour sauce over the carrot-quinoa mixture and fold until fully combined. Add sesame seeds and chili flakes (if using) and in until incorporated.
3. Chill in the fridge for 2 hours.
4. Remove from fridge and serve immediately.

Alyssa is the quinoa-obsessed girl behind the gluten-free website, Queen of Quinoa. She loves experimenting with nutritious and whole-food ingredients, and hopes to show the everyday home chef that cooking and eating gluten-free can not only be healthy, but also delicious and fun. Alyssa is also the author behind the popular ebook, Baking with Quinoa, which features scrumptious gluten-free, dairy-free and refined sugar-free treats.