Quinoa & Chickpea Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa, cooked according to instructions
  • 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup broccoli stem, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup red pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley & 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • (or whatever herbs you have/fancy)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the dressing:

  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Cook the quinoa according to packet instructions. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chickpeas, broccoli, carrots, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint. Toss to combine.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  5. Add crumbled feta cheese if desired.

Fertility-Boosting Ingredients

Quinoa is a delicious gluten-free grain and a great source of plant-based protein. It provides key nutrients such as magnesium, iron, zinc, fibre, and B vitamins including folate. It contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, that protect your cells from damage.

Chickpeas are a great source of iron, folate and choline, which have been linked to a reduced risk of ovulatory infertility, improved embryo quality and live births, and improved ovarian function, respectively.

Broccoli is high in vitamin C, which plays a role in menstrual cycle regulation, ovarian function, and progesterone stimulation. Vitamin C also boosts iron absorption! This recipe uses the stem, which is usually thrown away so it helps reduce food waste. Make sure to peel off the tougher outer skin.
Feta cheese is a good source of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin B2 and B12. It’s also a good source of protein and it contains probiotics and beneficial fatty acids.