From Plate to Purpose: A Healthy Labor Day Recipe & Career Path

Happy Labor Day, SWIHA Community!
As we take a collective pause this Labor Day, it's a perfect moment to reflect on the work we do and on the life we're cultivating. Whether you're a dedicated wellness warrior, a conscious cook, or someone exploring your next chapter, today offers an opportunity to celebrate the labor of love that goes into caring for our bodies, minds, and spirits.

At Southwest Institute of Healing Arts, we view holidays like this as more than just a day off—they're a chance to slow down and realign with what truly nourishes us. What we eat, how we live, and the energy we bring into the world all play a role in our personal and professional wellness. And yes—it's absolutely possible to enjoy a holiday meal that's festive, flavorful, and deeply nourishing.

In that spirit, we’re sharing a whole-foods-based recipe that’s perfect for your Labor Day festivities: our Grilled Veggie Quinoa Salad with a Lemon-Tahini Drizzle. It’s easy to prep, packed with nutrients, and ideal for outdoor gatherings or cozy, at-home meals.

🥗 Grilled Veggie Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle

This colorful dish brings together the earthy goodness of grilled vegetables, the complete protein of quinoa, and a creamy, citrusy dressing that ties it all together. It’s a celebration of summer produce and mindful eating!

🌱 Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, quartered
• 1 ear of corn, husked
• 1 small red onion, sliced into thick rings
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
  
  

For the Lemon-Tahini Drizzle:

• 1/4 cup tahini
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2–3 tbsp warm water (to thin)
• Salt to taste
  
  

🔥 Directions:

1. Cook the Quinoa:
   Bring quinoa and water (or broth) to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Let sit for 5 more, then fluff.
   
   
2. Grill the Veggies:
   Toss zucchini, bell pepper, corn, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill until lightly charred, then chop. Remove corn from cob.
   
   
3. Make the Dressing:
   Mix tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Add water to reach a drizzle-friendly consistency.
   
   
4. Assemble the Salad:
   Combine quinoa, veggies, tomatoes, and herbs. Drizzle with dressing, toss, and serve!

Food for the Body—Fuel for Your Future

Delicious, healthful meals like this one are reminders that wellness is a lifestyle, not a quick fix. They also serve as a gateway—many of our students began their wellness journey simply by learning how to nourish themselves and their loved ones. Eventually, that love of holistic living became their life’s purpose.

At SWIHA, we help turn that passion into a rewarding, heart-centered career. Our Health & Wellness Coaching programs teach you how to guide others in achieving balance through holistic nutrition, lifestyle changes, and supportive coaching techniques.

🎓 Why Choose SWIHA?

• - Nationally accredited and affordable
• - Flexible, online learning options
• - Learn holistic nutrition, behavior change, and motivational techniques
• - Pathways to national certification
  
  

Whether you're looking to start your own practice, add coaching to your current profession, or simply deepen your knowledge—our programs are designed to meet you where you are and help you grow.

✨ Your Purpose is Calling—Are You Ready?

Celebrate this Labor Day by investing in your health and your future. Let this be the season you turn your love of wellness into your life's work.