In a small saucepan bring water to a boil. Stir in the quinoa, and cover on low for 10 minutes. Set aside.
Pesto
While quinoa is cooking, start on the pesto.
Place basil, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, honey, and almonds in a food processor. Blend until smooth and set aside.
Balsamic
In a small saucepan simmer on low for 5 minutes the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar until syrupy, Set aside
Building the salad
Mix together the lettuce and chopped tomatoes. Add the quinoa, and top with desired amount of pesto and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Top with slivered almonds if desired.