Lambs Quarters Quinoa Bowl with Lemon Dressing

We have lambs quarters growing all over our yard! But instead of cursing it, I've decided to embrace this fast growing weed and learn how to incorporate it into our meals.

I've discovered that it's tender leaves are actually quite delicious; they have a more mild flavour than other wild greens, similar to spinach (except much more nutrioy!), and are tasty raw or cooked. 

And another added benefit is that these flavourful greens are a great source of vitamins A, C, and B6, and can help aid digestive issues like bloating and constipation. Note that it does contain oxalic acid, like spinach, which can affect calcium absorption. It is recommended to eat smaller quantities of raw lambs quarter, however cooking it reduces the oxalic content.

This recipe was inspired by a foraging cookbook that I found at a library, with some minor adjustments to suit my preferences. It is a super simple and fast recipe to throw together and makes a great side to any meal! I like to serve it with some smoked chicken and whatever fresh veggies we have on hand.

Honestly, this might be my new favourite meal to prepare because it is just loaded with flavour! 

Enjoy!

Recipe: 

2 cups cooked quinoa 
1 cup chopped lambs quarters
1/4 cup finely chopped onion (red or white)
1 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
1 handful of fresh herbs, optional, I used basil and parsley

Dressing 
Zest of half a lemon
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup olive oil
2 cloves of garlic
1 tsp salt

Combine cooked quinoa, lambs quarters, chopped onion, tomatoes and fresh herbs in a large bowl. Drizzle dressing and mix together. I prefer to serve this salad cold but it can be served warm as well. 

Note: if you do not have fresh herbs on hand I suggest adding dried dill, basil, parsley or oregano for some extra flavour!