Do you live in the Northern Hemisphere? I haven’t forgotten You!

It’s a weird thing writing about Summer when I am in winter, but I know you may very well be living on the other side of the world, experiencing the summer ‘yang’ aspect of life!  While I am rugged up by the fire, you may well be sheltering from the heat of the sun, hiding under the aircon!

I hope you are also enjoying the warmth and extra energy from this powerful source of light!  The sun can act as a great illuminator, shining it’s light on our illusionary darkness and helping us remember our true nature.

Nutritionally, we need to eat lighter meals that help us stay open and clear of heat.  The food that reminds me most of summer is watermelon!  It’s red, clears heat from the body, quenches thirst and it’s sweet taste keeps us grounded to the earth.  Combined with Quinoa, a nourishing protein rich grain, we can make a gorgeous light salad, perfect for summer.  Here’s my recipe for

Watermelon, Feta, and Quinoa salad

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups quinoa
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup watermelon, rind removed and cut into small cubes
• ½ block feta, crumbled
• 10 cherry tomatoes halved
• 2 green onions, white and green parts, chopped thin
• 1/3 cup loosely packed mint, chopped thin
• 1 tbspn finely chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• juice of one lemon
• pinch of salt and pepper

Directions: 

In a large saucepan, bring the quinoa and water to a rolling boil. Turn the heat down to a simmer, cover the pot halfway and cook until the water is completely absorbed and the quinoa is translucent (about 20 minutes). Let cool completely. 

When the quinoa is cooled, add the remaining ingredients and fold carefully. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. 

Refrigerate until ready to eat. Enjoy and don’t forget to let me know if you liked it!