Dr. McDougall's Pistachio Citrus Quinoa Salad

I'm a huge fan of Dr. McDougall's Soup, especially the Spring Onion. So simple to make and it tastes wonderful. On my last trip to the store, I saw this Dr. McDougall's Pistachio Citrus Quinoa Salad. It's not soup, but I still had to give it a try. I love quinoa and couscous, so it felt like a no-brainer. At first I thought Howard Dean was on the package, which was weird, but it's Dr. McDougall of course!

As you can see, the salad isn't super photogenic, but don't let that fool you. It packs a lot of flavor and is perfectly filling. Upon the first taste, I noticed a strong citrus zing and a heartiness from the quinoa, couscous, pistachios and almonds. My only complaint is I would consider this more of a side dish instead of a sole meal, but that's a personal preference. Also, it's called a "salad" but it's warm. The package suggests the Pistachio Citrus Quinoa Salad over a bed of greens and I would have to agree with that.

Bottom line: if you're looking for a quick, filling and healthy quinoa bowl, this might be right up your alley!

 

Qrunch Spicy Italian Quinoa Burgers

I love quinoa, as I'm sure you do, too. Is there someone out there that hates quinoa? I hope not! If anything, I wish there was more readily available pre-packaged quinoa based meals. So with that said, I was eagerly anticipating these Spicy Italian Quinoa burgers from Qrunch. Everything about these burgers sound delicious to me. And since they are made with quinoa, they are gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free and dairy-free. Perfect for almost anyone!    

The flavor is spicy without being too hot. I love topping it with Vegenaise, lettuce (or kale) and tomato to compliment the spice. The patty is pretty dense and very filling. I would describe it as breaded "chick'n"-like, crispy on the outside and soft inside. Their preferred method is an oven or skillet but I prefer a minute and a half in the microwave, even though they tell you not to. My only complaint would be the price ($7.50 or so for 4) but to me it's worth it. If you're ready to spice things up a bit, and want to try a different kind of veggie burger I think the Qrunch Spicy Italian Quinoa Burger is an awesome choice.

Fair Trade Month!

October is Fair Trade Month and I'm happy to be reviewing a ton of socially responsible products. Katie from Fair Trade USA went out her way to send me some of the best Fair Trade products that are also Vegan. For those of you who aren't familiar with concept of Fair Trade, it's basically a movement to alleviate poverty in developing nations, while ensuring consumers quality products that improve lives and protect the environment. So when you see a product with the Fair Trade Logo, you can be assured that the product is a good one!  

Kopali Organic Chocolate Covered Banana. These are nom city! I ate the whole package right away. Well, after I took the picture anyway. They are little banana bits, which are easier to eat when compare to large banana slices. They taste wonderful and I hope to see them in the store soon!

Alter Ego Dark Quinoa Dark Chocolate. Who knew? Quinoa and chocolate are AMAZING! The quinoa gives the chocolate the perfect crispness. Sort of like a Crunch bar, but totally Fair Trade chocolate. Buy it ASAP.

Madhava Organic Raw Agave Nectar. Agave is a great sweetener that is usually on the counter at my house. I personally don't use it, but my coffee/tea drinking girlfriend swears by it.   

Sweet Riot Chocolate Kickin' Coconut Bar. Another amazing Organic chocolate bar, but this time it's got coconut! Oodles of sweet delicious coconut covered in dark chocolate. Another ASAP buy! 

Rishi Organic Pu-Ern Ginger Tea. A spicy, potent, gingery tea. Great for Sunday morning breakfast!

Honest Tea Black Forest Tea. A delightfully berry tinged non-caffeinated iced tea. Great when you don't want anything overpowering sweet.

And if that wasn't enough, Coconut Bliss was kind enough to include a free coupon for giveaway! (**Updated 10/16** Fair Trade USA will also send you an above product of your choice plus a Fair Trade Tote Bag!) All you have to do is comment down below which of these products you are most excited to try. I will randomly pick a winner, Wednesday at 4pm CST. Also, look for a Vegan MoFo Fair Trade giveaway soon! Thank you to Fair Trade USA for promoting these wonderful products. Remember to look for the Fair Trade label!