Thai Quinoa Salad with Fresh Herbs and Lime Vinaigrette

Name: Thai Quinoa Salad with Fresh Herbs and Lime Vinaigrette
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian, Thai
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed (or pre-washed); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 red bell pepper, cut into bite-sized strips; 1 carrot, peeled and grated; 1 English cucumber, seeded and diced; 2 scallions, white and green parts, finely sliced; 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro; 2 tablespoons fresh chopped mint or basil (optional); 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice, from 3-4 limes; 2-1/2 teaspoons Asian fish sauce; 1-1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (use less if you don't like heat)