California Quinoa Salad

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook/stand time: 22 minutes

Chill time: at least 1 hour

Salad:

2 2/3 cups water

2 cups quinoa

2 cups diced fresh plums

3/4 cup dried plums, chopped

1 cup thinly sliced celery

1 cup chopped, toasted walnuts

2/3 cup minced red onion

2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil

Dressing:

2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/2 cup white wine vinegar

2 tbsp. honey

1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste

Freshly ground pepper to taste

Rinse quinoa in a fine mesh strainer; drain well. Bring water and quinoa to a boil in a medium saucepan; reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 12 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork and let cool. Place in a large bowl with remaining salad ingredients. Whisk together all dressing ingredients and pour over salad; toss well to coat. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour. Makes 10 to 12 servings.