I love hearing from KDHamptons readers, especially when they fill me in on a fabulous recipe or meal I have never prepared. The Hamptons are filled with foodies who love to roam the local farm stands, and gourmet food shops looking for fresh ideas to cook for their friends and families. In the off-season out here, it’s ALL about the dinner party. This week, Hampton Bays resident Jennifer Rizzo shares her secret Quinoa Salad:

Jen shares, “So lately my two obsessions are #instagram  [follow her @famfoodfun], and quinoa! An unlikely pairing, but it’s the truth! My end of summer Quinoa Salad version had fresh avocado and spinach thrown in, but my new secret ingredient for fall kale. I love kale, and try to put it in anything and everything!”

Jen shares: For this Quinoa Salad I use Pereg Gourmet whole grain – all natural quinoa. I love it because I am a busy mom of 3 and the pre-packaged/pre-washed 6oz bags are perfect, I serve it at dinner and then have some left over for a healthy lunch the next day.

I cut up 6-8 fresh Campari tomatoes and 1 large zucchini [leaving the skin on] and toss them with some Avocado Oil [La Tourangelle is my favorite brand] and Sea Salt – then pop them in the oven to slow roast. TIP: (the lower the temp for the longest time is the best . . but if I am short on time I put if up to 325-350 for only 1/2hour or so). It makes the tomatoes super sweet!!

After cooking the quinoa [as directed] I start to add everything in a large mixing bowl:

– 1 can chickpeas (rinsed)

– fresh kale which i diced up and saute’ before adding to mixture (i like to saute’ mine with scallions)

– fresh cilantro diced (to taste)

– juice of a lemon and a lime (sometimes I use more than 1)

– toasted pumpkin seeds

The great thing is that you can add whatever your families favorites are. The recipe can change with the seasons and it is so super healthy and most importantly gluten free, as we have a daughter with Celiac. I run a dual kitchen but try to go 100% gluten free on homemade meals as often as possible. Bon Appetit!

***Thanks for sharing Jennifer! Hey KDHamptons readers, got some of your own great recipes that you’d like to share? Please send them to me at kdh@kdhamptons.com