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On a quiet Sunday afternoon, I found myself reflecting on my eating habits. After years of rushing through meals and relying on convenience foods, I realized I needed to prioritize my health. A chance encounter with a vibrant quinoa salad at a local cafe sparked my interest in this superfood. Combining it with creamy avocado felt like the perfect way to create a dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent. This recipe for Quinoa Salad with Avocado was born out of a desire to eat better while celebrating fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Quinoa Salad with Avocado: A Wholesome Delight
This quinoa salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and nutrition. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and a medley of vegetables, it’s an ideal choice for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a nutritious side dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your journey into healthy eating, this recipe will win you over.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup (185 grams) quinoa
- 2 cups (475 ml) water or vegetable broth
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup (150 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup (75 grams) red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup (4 grams) fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon or lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup (150 grams) cucumber, diced
- ½ cup (75 grams) crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup (35 grams) sunflower seeds or chopped nuts
Step-by-Step Preparation
1: Cook the Quinoa
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine mesh strainer to remove its bitter natural coating.
- Bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Allow it to cool completely.
2: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
While the quinoa cools, dice the avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion. Prepare any additional add-ins you’d like to include.
3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon or lime juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until emulsified, and taste to adjust seasoning as needed.
4: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, fresh vegetables, and dressing. Gently toss until evenly mixed. Be careful not to mash the avocado.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Toast the Quinoa: Before cooking, toast the quinoa in a dry skillet for a nutty, aromatic flavor.
- Use Ripe Avocado: Choose an avocado that yields slightly to pressure for the perfect creamy texture.
- Customize Your Salad: Add your favorite nuts, seeds, or cheeses to make the recipe uniquely yours.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled as a refreshing lunch.
- Pair with grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier meal.
- Garnish with additional herbs or a sprinkle of crumbled feta for an extra flavor boost.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 3g
Table: Key Ingredient Measurements
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Quinoa | 1 cup (185g) | Rinsed |
| Water/Broth | 2 cups (475ml) | Hot |
| Avocado | 1 large | Diced |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 1 cup (150g) | Halved |
| Red Onion | ½ cup (75g) | Finely chopped |
| Fresh Herbs | ¼ cup (4g) | Chopped |
| Olive Oil | ¼ cup (60ml) | Extra virgin |
| Lemon/Lime Juice | 2 tablespoons (30ml) | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
Related Content
Explore our Healthy Eating Section for more nutritious recipes like this one.
Watch a video tutorial on making quinoa salad for visual guidance:
Sources
- Professional Culinary Resources
- Nutritional Databases
This recipe is more than a meal; it’s a step toward a healthier, more flavorful lifestyle. Dive into the world of wholesome eating with this Quinoa Salad with Avocado, and enjoy every bite!
