Avocado Quinoa Salad
Avocado Quinoa Salad is a nutritious and satisfying dish that combines the wholesome goodness of quinoa with creamy avocado and a variety of fresh vegetables. This salad is packed with flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for a healthy lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 English cucumber, finely diced
- 1 Hass avocado, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, finely diced
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/2 cup pitted and sliced green olives
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 3/4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Quinoa:
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine mesh sieve.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, diced cucumber, diced avocado, diced yellow bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and sliced green olives.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Combine and Season:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl.
- Gently toss everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with additional lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired.
Possible Variations and Tips for Success
- Add Protein: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
- Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil for extra freshness.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds such as almonds, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds on top.
- Creamy Addition: Drizzle with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a creamy tahini dressing for added creaminess.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious.
Is quinoa salad gluten-free? Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this salad a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
What can I serve with avocado quinoa salad? This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as a standalone vegetarian dish. It also makes a great addition to picnics or potlucks.
Recipes you might also like:
- For another wholesome salad, try our Cold Noodle Salad.
- If you enjoy Mediterranean flavors, check out our Za’atar Cucumber Salad.
- Looking for more avocado goodness? Consider our Creamy Avocado Chicken Salad.
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