Quinoa Vegetable Salad

1 . Stage

Heat canola oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and yellow onion; cook and stir until onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Add water, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper; bring to a boil.

2 . Stage

Stir quinoa into the pan, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover. Simmer until quinoa is tender, about 20 minutes. Drain any remaining water with a mesh strainer; transfer quinoa to a large mixing bowl. Cover and refrigerate until cold, about 45 minutes.

3 . Stage

Stir tomato, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, corn, and red onion into chilled quinoa. Season with cilantro, mint, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, then gently stir until evenly mixed.