As you all probably know by now from reading my blog, my schedule doesn't allow me to spend too many hours cooking.  But even though time may be an issue, I never skimp on fresh ingredients.  Since this week proved to be extremely hectic  between juggling work, blogging, and various random errands that never seemed to make it off my list, I needed a refreshing dish to destress.  Not to add, I have a fully stacked weekend (Oktoberfest and GrubStreet) that I need to cleanse for!

For the recipe, read on... Black Bean Quinoa Salad (prep time: 20-30 minutes)

Ingredients - 1 cup of red Quinoa - 2 cups of water - 1/2 cup chopped Red Bell Peppers - 1/4 cup chopped Parsley - 1 clove of finely chopped garlic - 1/2 cup chopped English Cucumber - 1 can of Black Beans - Juice of 2 Limes - Salt and Pepper - 1 Tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Directions - Bring salted water to boil, add Quinoa, drop heat to medium-low and cover. Cook for 15 minutes or until water is fully absorbed. Add black beans and let cool for 10-15 minutes. - In a large bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, bell peppers, garlic, parsley, cucumber, 1 teaspoon of salt and pepper. Once black beans have cooled, add to bowl. Combine and enjoy!