Dr. Shekhar's Summery Pasta Salad,
(Source:Ayurveda Wellness Center - Ojas, LLC Newsletter MAY, 2010)

Five important ingredients - walnuts, avocados, ginger, orange zest and lemons - make for an exciting summer recipe.


 

Makes 4 Servings

Ingredients:
8 ounces quinoa penne
1 medium carrot, shredded
1/2 medium yellow bell pepper, cut into matchsticks
3 scallions, minced
1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
1/3 cup organic sesame oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice
2 ripe Hass avocados
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup orange zest
1 teaspoon fresh ginger juice
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper

Preparation:
1. Boil quinoa penne according to package directions and set aside.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of the sesame oil.  Add the bell pepper, carrot, green onions, olives, walnuts saute slightly. 
3. Lightly toss the sauteed vegetables with the pasta to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining sesame oil, lemon juice, salt, and ginger juice.  Pit, peel and dice the avocado and add to the dressing, tossing gently to coat.
4. Add the avocado mixture to the pasta mixture along with the basil leaves and toss gently to combine.
5. Taste and enjoy in mindful eating with family and friends.