Mango Mint Grain Salad

Sweet, salty, fresh & spicy... that's the best way to describe this simple mixed grain salad.

This yummy meal (or side salad) is super high in protein, fiber & other great nutrients. There's no meat and it travels well for meals on the go.

You can really get creative with this one! Use whatever you have in the pantry & fridge.... especially for the grains part. I used orzo, farro and black beans for the base. Some other options are brown rice, lentils, garbanzo beans, wheat berries, etc.

Here's my full recipe:

MANGO MINT GRAIN SALAD

What you need:
* I just used the leftovers we had at home, so feel free to add to the amounts or do less... make it your own.
1/2C dry orzo
1/4C dry farro
1/2C black beans
1/2TBSP chopped fresh mint
1/4C chopped fresh mango
1/4C diced avocado

1/4C diced tomato

2TBSP chopped tamed jalapeno
1/2TBSP olive oil
1TBSP fresh lime juice
salt, pepper & oregano to taste
Optional: cheese of choice: feta, cheddar, pepper jack, etc. I used 1/4C cubed sharp white cheddar

How to:
Cook orzo & farro (or other grains) according to package. Let cool. Mix all ingredients together and serve or store.

* Why try farro??

Farro is a whole grain that's an excellent source for complex carbohydrates. It has twice the fiber and protein than regular wheat. A carbohydrate in farro called cyanogenic glucosides has been found to stimulate the immune system, lower cholesterol and help maintain blood sugar levels. 

In addition to minerals and vitamins, farro is rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients, lignans and betaine.  Betaine, when combined with choline, has been shown to prevent or reduce stress-included inflammation, which can be beneficial for individuals suffering from certain medical conditions.