Recipe: Tomatillo Corn Salad

I am someone who is inspired by ingredients. And during my recent visit to the farmers market, I couldn't help but want to take home some tomatillos. These green tomato-like fruits with a paper-y husk are often featured in Southwestern and Mexican cuisine.

With cilantro and some chili peppers, tomatillos make a great salsa. Instead of the usual corn chips, I thought it would be fun to feature in a quinoa salad with corn and zucchini. I was surprised by how great this recipe turned out. And also how easy it was! If you have leftover quinoa, it can be made in under 15 minutes!

Serve by itself or over a bed of spinach or arugula. Pairs well with grilled fish.

Tomatillo Salsa
(recipe from Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone)
8 ounces tomatillos, husks removed
5 sprigs cilantro
2 serrano or mild chili peppers
1/2 small white onion, sliced
Salt

Place tomatillos in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until they are dull green, about 10 minutes. Drain. Puree in a blender or food processor with the chiles, onion, cilantro, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Chill before serving.

Quinoa Salad with Corn and Zucchini
1.5 cups quinoa
3 cups water
1 corn, kernels removed
1 medium zucchini, quartered and sliced
1 tbsp olive oil

To make quinoa, place in heavy pot with water. Bring to boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes, until quinoa is finished.

In a medium sized skillet, saute corn and zucchini in olive oil over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes until done. Add to cooked quinoa.

Serve with tomatillo salsa. Enjoy!