Ingredients
To make a delicious Avocado Quinoa Salad, you’ll need the following:
- 1 cup of quinoa, rinsed and cooked
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup of black beans (optional for extra protein)
- 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional for extra flavor)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Cook the Quinoa:
- Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. Cook according to package instructions, then let it cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Dice the avocado, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Chop the fresh cilantro or parsley.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black beans (if using), and feta cheese (if using).
- Toss with Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs and serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (serving 4):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 200-300mg
- Sugar: 3g
Tips for Customization
- Make It Vegan: Skip the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Add More Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Boost the Crunch: Add toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle with chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Avocado Quinoa Salad is a nutritious, vibrant, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal-prepping, looking for a light lunch, or serving it as a side, this salad is packed with fresh flavors and health benefits.
Try this Avocado Quinoa Salad recipe today and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal!