Looking for a fresh and nutritious dish that’s bursting with flavor? This quinoa avocado salad is just what you need. It’s perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or even a healthy snack. With creamy avocado and nutty quinoa, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and good for you.
This salad is versatile too! You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer picnic or a cozy dinner at home, this quinoa avocado salad will impress you and your guests alike.
The combination of textures in this salad is delightful. The fluffy quinoa pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado, while the crunchy vegetables add a refreshing crunch.
Colorful Ingredients
The quinoa avocado salad shines with its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients.
Fluffy quinoa serves as the base, offering a nutty flavor and a source of protein.
Pairing it with creamy diced avocado adds richness and a smooth texture, making each bite satisfying.
Cherry tomatoes provide bursts of sweetness, while crisp cucumber and bell pepper contribute refreshing crunchiness.
This medley not only pleases the palate but also creates a visually appealing dish that’s a feast for the eyes.
Zesty Lime Dressing
The zesty lime dressing is what ties the salad together.
Made with fresh lime juice and olive oil, it enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
A sprinkle of salt and pepper balances the dressing, ensuring each ingredient shines through.
This dressing is simple to prepare and can be adjusted to suit personal taste preferences.
Preparation Steps
Preparing this salad is straightforward and can be done in under 30 minutes.
Begin by cooking the quinoa until fluffy, allowing it to cool while you chop the vegetables.
Mixing the dressing is quick, and tossing everything together is the final step.
For those who prefer chilled dishes, refrigerate the salad for a short time to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This quinoa avocado salad is versatile, making it suitable for various occasions.
Whether it’s a sunny picnic, a light lunch, or a side dish for dinner, this salad fits right in.
Its refreshing taste and vibrant look are sure to impress guests at gatherings or serve as a quick meal at home.
Health Benefits
Not only is this salad delicious, but it also boasts numerous health benefits.
Quinoa is a complete protein, making it an excellent choice for those seeking nutritious meals.
Avocados provide healthy fats, while the array of vegetables contributes essential vitamins and minerals.
This salad is a light yet filling option that aligns well with a healthy lifestyle.
Storage Tips
If preparing in advance, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
To keep the avocado from browning, consider adding the dressing just before serving.
Enjoying leftovers the next day can be just as delightful, as the flavors continue to develop.
This makes it a practical option for meal prep enthusiasts looking for a quick, healthy option throughout the week.
The Ultimate Quinoa Avocado Salad Recipe
This quinoa avocado salad is a colorful, hearty dish featuring fluffy quinoa, ripe avocado, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing. It’s light yet filling, making it a fantastic option for any meal of the day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.
- Prepare Vegetables: While the quinoa is cooling, dice the avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced vegetables, and chopped cilantro. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
