Dive into a world of culinary delight and nourishment with our Tabbouleh Fonio salad. This vibrant dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch. From the nutty richness of cooked fonio to the hydrating crunch of English cucumber and the antioxidant-rich sweetness of grape tomatoes, every ingredient contributes to a symphony of health benefits.          The abundance of parsley and mint adds not just vibrant flavors but also a plethora of vitamins and minerals. Paired with scallions, optional white beans for added protein, and a dressing featuring heart-healthy olive oil and immune-boosting garlic, this salad is a powerhouse of nutrients. Elevate your well-being with each delicious forkful, as this recipe seamlessly blends culinary pleasure with nutritional goodness.

            For this recipe we added the ancient African supergrain: Fonio. While this grain is a staple crop in Africa, it is relatively unknown in western culture. One of our goals is providing more information about this miracle crop to regions where it has never been heard of. We exclusively work with production partners who help to create a sustainable source of income, to strengthen communities, and to increase the quality of life by ethically trading with farmers for fonio and other traditional crops. Learn more about Fonio in the paragraphs below.

Tips & Facts

If you are unfamiliar with Fonio and don’t know where to start, here are some quick tips and facts to help with your cooking journey:

• Fonio is a West African ancient supergrain known as ‘The Seed of the Universe’ in African lore. Depended upon for thousands of years due to its nutritional benefits, as well as its ability to grow in poor soil conditions, it is a staple crop of Africa. While it is such an important part of West African cuisine and culture, it is relatively unknown outside of Africa. 
• Gluten-free and PACKED with plant-based protein, Fonio contains important sources of nutrients including fiber, B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and folate) and minerals (iron, magnesium and selenium) that help us feel fuller for longer. 
• Fonio provides a range of essential amino acids (methionine and cystine) vital to human health and deficient in today’s major cereals of wheat, rice, maize, sorghum, barley, and rye.
• One of the best features of this tiny wonder is the versatility it boasts in all cooking endeavors. It can be used as a gluten-free alternative to couscous, quinoa, rice, bulgur, and even hot breakfast cereal.
• Ready in just 5 min, Fonio is also very forgiving during prep. If it’s too wet, cook or steam for a few extra minutes. If it’s too dry, add more liquid and simmer. 

Lastly, this fonio salad is:

• High in protein
• High in antioxidents
• Fully customizable

Tabbouleh Fonio Salad

Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 5 min
Total Time: 10 min

Directions

1. Cut the cucumbers and tomatoes. Sprinkle on some salt and let them sit in a colander for about 10 minutes.
2. Cut off the stems from the parsley bunches and chop the leaves fine, or put into a food processor and pulse to chop. Make sure the parsley is good and dry.
3.  In a small bowl whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
4. Combine the fonio, cucumber, tomatoes, parsley, mint, scallions, white beans (if using), and dressing.

Nutrition:
Calories 460 | Fat 18g | Cholesterol 0mg | Sodium 134mg | Carbohydrates 61.3g | Fiber 14g | Sugars 5.7g | Protein 19.2g | Potassium 1722mg | Calcium 251mg | Iron 13mg