Buckwheat Mediterranean Salad

Buckwheat Mediterranean Salad

Unlike the name suggests buckwheat is not a wheat or a grain, it is a seed and is packed full of amazing nutrients. 

Buckwheat is a great source of protein for those you are vegetarian or vegan (or those who just want to have a meat free day). Protein is an essential macro nutrient needed for not just muscles but the immune system, nervous system, hair skin and nails and so much more.

Most importantly for vegetarians and vegans is that buckwheat contains all of the essential amino acids which are the aminos that can only be obtained from the food we eat. We need a balance of all the amino acids including the essential ones to grow and function properly. 

Buckwheat is also a great source of phytonutrients as well as zinc, magnesium and selenium so is a wonderful anti-inflammatory as well immune boosting food to include in your diet. 

Check out this super delicious salad idea which you can definitely play around with in terms of ingredients and flavours. 

Ingredients

·         1/2 cup buckwheat

·         1.25 cups water

·         1/2 cup red onion diced

·         1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes

·         1 cup cucumber chopped

·         1/2 cup pitted olives

·         1 yellow or orange capsicum seeded and chopped

·         1/4 cup olive oil

·         Juice of one lemon

·         1/2 tsp sea salt

·         1 tsp dried oregano

·         1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese optional

·         1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

In a saucepan bring the buckwheat and water to the boil, turn the heat down and then simmer for about 20min. You can add a pinch of Himalayan Pink Salt or Sea Salt if you wish. 

Remove from the heat and let the pot stand for about 5 minutes. This should let the last of the water absorb into the buckwheat. 

Fluff with a fork and allow to cool. 

Combine the cooled buckwheat with all the other ingredients to make a salad. 

For the meat eaters - if you want you can serve with your choice of protein such as fish, chicken or lamb. 

Add avocado for an extra hit of healthy fats. YUM!