lemony kale and quinoa salad

Oh, Claire. What am I going to do without you? Who will inspire me now that you're gone?

I just finished Season 2 of House of Cards. Have you watched it? It is intense. And to see Claire Underwood (played by Robin Wright), a woman my own age and in such fabulous shape, inspired me to begin to run.

I have worked my way up to 20 minutes a day. And a wonderful thing has happened. My body now craves it. If I do not run for a day my legs beg for it. Amazing.

So, now that House of Cards is done (for a year, I guess) what shall I replace it with?

What inspires you?

Enjoy this lovely lemony kale salad. Even if you don't run you'll feel like you did - so healthy I can hardly stand it!

Lemony Kale and Quinoa Salad
Serves 2-4, adapted from Food52

Ingredients

• 2 cups salted water
• 1 cup quinoa
• 1/2 bunch kale, washed and chopped into 1" lengths
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 20 chives, minced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
• salt and pepper

 Instructions

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, chives, sesame oil (you can substitute olive oil if you desire), 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.