Going into the summertime can be stressful when creating and sustaining a healthful lifestyle.  There is party after party.  It all ramps up around Mother’s Day in May and doesn’t stop until Labor Day in September.  My local neighborhood hosts weekend BBQ’s, Street Parties and impromptu parties all the time.  And if you’re like me, it’s hard to say no (especially when you know you’ll have a great time!).

With that, I had to figure out a few things that I could bring that the neighbors would enjoy and I could actually eat!

My HIT!! Greek Salad made with Quinoa.  It’s packed with veggis, can sit out on a hot day and there’s no sugar or gluten.  YEAH!  Try it out over this weekend.  It’s easy and super yummy!

Greek Salad

Serves 2-3

Ingredients:

½ cup carrot, diced

½ cup cucumber, diced

½ cup bell pepper, diced

1 cup of cherry tomatoes

½ cup artichoke hearts, chopped

2  cups cooked quinoa

10 kalamata olives, chopped

2 tbs pepperoncini rings

1.5 oz feta cheese, crumbled

1 tbs olive oil

1 bs red wine vinegar

¼ tsp garlic powder, heaping

¼ tsp dried oregano, heaping

½ lemon, juiced

Salt and Pepper to taste

Optional:

½ cup chickpeas

½ cup diced cooked chicken breast, salmon or shrimp

Procedure:

Combine olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano and S&P in a small container.  Mix well to create the dressing.

In separate large bowl combine all other ingredients.  Add dressing and toss.

Enjoy!