Name: Avocado Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup organic quinoa; 2 ripe avocados; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium cucumber, diced; ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley), chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Print Recipe

Avocado quinoa salad is a delightful dish that tantalizes your taste buds with creamy avocados, nutty quinoa, and vibrant veggies. Thai-inspired quinoa salad Imagine biting into a spoonful of this colorful medley, where each ingredient dances together in perfect harmony.

Every time I make avocado quinoa salad, I’m reminded of summer picnics and backyard barbecues. It’s the kind of dish that brings friends together as they savor each flavorful bite. spicy garlic chili noodles You can enjoy it on a sunny afternoon or as a light dinner option; it never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This avocado quinoa salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight meals or gatherings
Its fresh flavors burst in your mouth, while the vibrant colors shine on your plate
You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or dressing
Plus, it’s a versatile dish, suitable for lunches, side dishes, or even as a light main course

I remember the first time I served this avocado quinoa salad at a family barbecue; everyone went back for seconds and thirds! Their delighted reactions were priceless. savory chicken kofta.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Quinoa: Use organic quinoa for the best flavor; rinse it well to remove any bitterness before cooking.
Avocados: Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly to pressure for optimal creaminess.
Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for sweet cherry tomatoes; they add freshness and color to your salad. sweet potato lentil patties.
Cucumber: A crisp cucumber adds crunch; peel it if you prefer a milder taste.
Red Onion: Thinly slice red onion for added flavor without overwhelming the palate.
Fresh Herbs (like Cilantro or Parsley): Fresh herbs elevate the salad; use whatever you have on hand for flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors and keeps the avocados from browning.
Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness while providing healthy fats.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget these basics to enhance all the flavors in your salad!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Quinoa: Start by rinsing one cup of quinoa under cold water until it runs clear. In a medium pot, combine rinsed quinoa with two cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.

Prep Your Veggies: While the quinoa cooks, chop one cucumber and halve a cup of cherry tomatoes. Dice two ripe avocados carefully to keep them intact and not mushy.

Toss in Fresh Herbs: Finely chop fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley—about half a cup should do nicely. The aroma will fill your kitchen with freshness as you chop!

Create Your Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together three tablespoons of olive oil with juice from one lemon. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This will tie all your flavors together beautifully.

Combine Everything in a Bowl: Once the quinoa has cooled slightly, mix it in a large bowl with all chopped vegetables and herbs. Drizzle your dressing over everything and gently toss until well combined.

Serve and Enjoy!: Plate up generous portions of your avocado quinoa salad! Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors even more. For more inspiration, check out this Avocado Feta Toast recipe recipe.

Now you have an incredible avocado quinoa salad ready to impress friends or family at any occasion! Enjoy every bite!

You Must Know

This Avocado Quinoa Salad is not just a dish; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors that can brighten any day
Enjoy the delightful crunch and creamy texture, making it a feast for both the eyes and taste buds
Perfect for meal prep, it stays fresh in the fridge for days!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing your quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. Cook it in vegetable broth for added flavor. Meanwhile, chop your veggies and prepare your dressing to save time and ensure everything is fresh.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you love or have on hand. Try adding black beans, cherry tomatoes, or even some feta cheese for an extra zing that suits your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If you want a warm salad experience, gently reheat in the microwave before serving, but be mindful of not overcooking the avocado.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to elevate flavors significantly
Always check quinoa for doneness; it should be fluffy, not mushy
Experiment with different dressings to find your perfect match!

Nothing warms my heart more than when my friends rave about this salad at gatherings. I once made it for a picnic; everyone loved it so much they dubbed me “The Quinoa Queen” – a title I proudly wear!

FAQ

What can I substitute for quinoa in this salad?

You can easily use couscous or farro if you prefer something different.

How can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

This salad is already vegan; just ensure your dressing ingredients are plant-based.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after marinating overnight in the refrigerator.

Avocado Quinoa Salad