Kale & Quinoa Pilaf

In case you're not watching Modern Family (and really, you should be) and missed it, kale is the new spinach.  Or in my life, kale is the new black.  It's crazy good for you and not bad for something as green as it is and this dish is DELICIOUS.  We had this a few nights back and Toad already wants it on next weeks' menu.  I think the flavors might have been a welcome respite to my southwestern heavy leanings,  but this was one yummy dinner!  Also, I found this recipe on my new favorite foodie site Food 52.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups salted water


• 1 cup quinoa


• 1 bunch lacinato kale, washed and chopped into 1" lengths


• 1 meyer lemon, zested and juiced (I used a regular old lemon)


• 2 scallions, minced


• 1 tablespoon toasted walnut oil (I used olive)


• 3 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (I used almonds)


• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (I used feta)


• salt and pepper

PREPARATION

1. Bring the water to a boil in a covered pot. Add the quinoa, cover, and lower the heat until it is just enough to maintain a simmer. Let simmer for 10 minutes, then top with the kale and re-cover. Simmer another 5 minutes, then turn off the heat and allow to steam for 5 more minutes.



2. While the quinoa is cooking, take a large serving bowl and combine half of the lemon juice (reserving the other half), all of the lemon zest, scallions, walnut oil, pine nuts, and goat cheese.



3. Check the quinoa and kale when the cooking time has completed -- the water should have absorbed, and the quinoa will be tender but firm, and the kale tender and bright green. If the quinoa still has a hard white center, you can steam a bit longer (adding more water if needed). When the quinoa and kale are done, fluff the pilaf, and tip it into the waiting bowl with the remaining ingredients. As the hot quinoa hits the scallions and lemon it should smell lovely. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper, and the remaining lemon juice if needed.