Quinoa Tabbouli Salad with Black Beans

We can't seem to get enough of tabbouli-style salad. Though the traditional recipe calls for couscous or bulgur, quinoa tabbouli salad is fantastic (bonus - it becomes gluten-free). You can use red, tan, or black quinoa, or a combination. Embellished with black beans, this makes a high-protein salad that's hearty enough to be a main dish, especially for a summer meal. Delicious served with hummus, rice-stuffed grape leaves, and fresh pita. Photos by Evan Atlas.

Serves: 6 to 8

1 cup raw quinoa (any color, or try a combination)
3 to 4 medium firm, ripe tomatoes, diced
15- to 16-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup finely chopped fresh parsley, or more, to taste
2 to 3 scallions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 large lemon, or more, to taste
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Toasted sunflower seeds for topping, optional

Combine the quinoa with 2 cups water in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer until the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. If you'd like a more tender grain, add ½ cup additional water and continue to simmer until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool to room temperature.

Combine with the remaining ingredients in a serving dish and mix well. Cover and let stand for an hour or so before serving if time allows. Pass around toasted sunflower seeds for topping, if desired.