Earthy quinoa and hearty chickpeas make a healthy salad that is satisfying enough for lunch or a light supper with plenty of flavour in every bite thanks the fragrant curry-spiced dressing.
Place the currants in a small bowl, cover with hot water and let soak for 5 to 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas and set aside.
Place the quinoa and water in a medium pot and bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow to simmer for 15 minutes. While the quinoa is simmering prep your vegetables and herbs. After the quinoa has cooked for 15 minutes, remove from the heat and let sit for an additional 5 minutes. Gently add the thawed peas, cover and let stand for 5 more minutes. Remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork.
Mix together the sesame oil, lemon juice, grated ginger, curry powder, turmeric, salt and pepper. Taste and adjust, adding more curry powder or salt as needed.
Place the cooked quinoa in a serving bowl, and add the chickpeas, currants, red bell pepper, shredded carrots and the cilantro and parsley. Add the sesame oil mixture and toss to combine.
Top with the roasted cashews just before serving.Serves 4 for a main meal or 6 as a side