quinoa and avocado salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best quinoa and avocado salad recipe

I have been making this quinoa and avocado salad recipe for years, and it’s become a staple in our household. It’s a perfect combination of healthy ingredients, flavors, and textures that my family loves. I love how easy it is to make, and the best part is that it’s a great way to get my kids to eat more vegetables.

Quinoa is a great source of protein and fiber, and when combined with the creamy avocado, it makes for a filling and satisfying meal. This recipe is also a great way to get rid of leftover quinoa or chicken in the fridge. I like to serve it as a side dish or add some grilled chicken on top to make it more substantial.

The flavors are simple yet delicious, with just the right amount of acidity from the lemon juice and zest. My family loves it when I serve this salad at family gatherings or picnics. The best part is that it’s a great way to get everyone involved in cooking, from chopping the veggies to mixing the dressing.

This recipe has become a favorite among our friends and family, and I’m sure it will be yours too! I love how versatile this recipe is – you can add your favorite toppings or mix-ins to make it your own. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how customizable it is.

You can add some heat with red pepper flakes or keep it mild with just salt and pepper. My kids love helping me assemble the salad, and they’re always excited to see what new ingredients I’ve added to the mix. This recipe has been a game-changer for our family’s health and wellness goals.

With all the added veggies, quinoa, and lean protein from the chicken (if using), we feel good about what we’re putting in our bodies.

Quinoa and Avocado Salad

4.7 from 1021 votes

This refreshing Quinoa and Avocado Salad is a perfect blend of creamy avocados, protein-packed quinoa, and a zesty lime dressing. It is a healthy and satisfying meal or side dish.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Quinoa

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water

For the Salad

2 ripe avocados
1 cucumber
1 red bell pepper
1/2 red onion
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Dressing

Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve.
2This step helps remove any bitterness.
3Place the quinoa in a medium saucepan and add 2 cups of water.
4Bring to a boil over high heat.
5Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
6After 15 minutes, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
7Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside to cool.
8While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the salad ingredients.
9Dice the avocados into small cubes, ensuring they are evenly sized.
10Slice the cucumber into half-moons.
11Chop the red bell pepper into small pieces.
12Finely chop the red onion.
13Chop the fresh cilantro leaves.
14In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, diced avocados, sliced cucumbers, chopped red bell pepper, and red onion.
15Toss gently to mix well.
16In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of 2 limes, olive oil, honey, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
17Season with salt and pepper to taste.
18Pour the dressing over the quinoa and avocado mixture.
19Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
20Garnish the salad with chopped fresh cilantro.
21Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
22Enjoy this refreshing and healthy quinoa and avocado salad.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan with lid
Large mixing bowl
Cutting board
Sharp knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 2.5g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 200mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

Tips: To prevent avocados from browning, you can squeeze a little lime juice over them while preparing the salad.

Watch Video Of How Quinoa and Avocado Salad Works

This quinoa and avocado salad recipe has been a staple in our household for years – it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and delicious!

The best part is that it’s so versatile – you can add your favorite toppings or mix-ins to make it your own.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how customizable it is – you can add some heat with red pepper flakes or keep it mild with just salt and pepper.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Quinoa and Avocado Salad

Q: What type of quinoa should I use for this recipe?

A: You can use any type of quinoa you like, but I prefer tri-color or red quinoa for its nutty flavor and fun color.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this salad up to 24 hours in advance – just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve.

Q: How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

A: To prevent browning, sprinkle lemon juice over the avocado immediately after cutting – this will help maintain its vibrant green color.

Q: Can I substitute other types of greens for spinach?

A: Yes, you can use any type of leafy green you like – kale, arugula, or mixed greens work well too.

Q: Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

A: Yes, this salad is perfect for vegetarians – simply omit the grilled chicken if using.

Similar Posts